October 13, 2024 / 13:14 IST
Asteroid Passing by Earth (Representative Image - Canva)
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is actively monitoring three asteroids making close approaches to Earth on 13 October 2024. While none of these space rocks pose any immediate threat, their proximity offers a rare research opportunity. Each asteroid will provide scientists with critical data about their structure and behaviour.
Asteroid 2024 SM4: The Airplane-Sized Visitor
The first asteroid, named 2024 SM4, is approximately 170 feet wide. It will safely pass Earth at a distance of 4,500,000 kilometres. Though this distance is further than the Moon, it remains an ideal subject for observation. - Size: 170 feet
- Closest Approach: 4,500,000 kilometres
- Date: 13 October 2024
Asteroid 2024 TX5: The House-Sized Rock
Asteroid 2024 TX5 is smaller, measuring 58 feet in width. This asteroid will come closer, with its nearest approach at 2,830,000 kilometres. Researchers are keen to analyse its data as it passes by. - Size: 58 feet
- Closest Approach: 2,830,000 kilometres
- Date: 13 October 2024
Asteroid 2024 TA7: Small but Close
The third asteroid, 2024 TA7, is around 40 feet wide. It will pass at just 328,000 kilometres from Earth. This close flyby offers an exceptional opportunity for NASA’s instruments to capture more detailed observations. - Size: 40 feet
- Closest Approach: 328,000 kilometres
- Date: 13 October 2024
Although none of these asteroids are dangerous, they still provide crucial learning opportunities. NASA's ongoing efforts to monitor and understand space objects continue to be essential for planetary safety.
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