A huge 310-foot asteroid will cross Earth at a high speed of 18,067 miles per hour today, NASA confirms

Asteroid Alert! (Image: Canva)

Stargazers often enjoy calm nights filled with curiosity and wonder. This week, however, a speeding asteroid is drawing attention from astronomers worldwide.

How close will asteroid 2025 SW come to Earth?

NASA has confirmed that asteroid 2025 SW will pass Earth on 25 September. The space rock measures roughly 310 feet wide and travels at 18,067 miles per hour. Its closest approach is expected to be 994,000 miles from our planet. While that distance may seem large, experts consider it relatively close by space standards. The asteroid belongs to the Aten group, known for crossing Earth’s orbit. Despite its size, NASA says it poses no threat. Scientists only classify rocks as hazardous if they exceed 85 metres in width and approach closer than 7.4 million kilometres. 2025 SW does not meet either condition.

Why space agencies track asteroids closely

Even harmless flybys are carefully monitored, scientists say. Slight orbital shifts can change an asteroid’s trajectory significantly. NASA and other agencies keep a watchful eye to ensure safety. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath told ScienceAlert that India plans to study larger asteroids, including Apophis in 2029. He also aims to collaborate with NASA, ESA, and JAXA on future missions. India hopes to send spacecraft to land on asteroids and gather more data.

What makes 2025 SW noteworthy

Although it poses no immediate risk, 2025 SW reminds us of space’s surprises. A clear night sky can change unexpectedly. Its close approach highlights the importance of continued tracking and research. While this asteroid will pass quietly, scientists worldwide will be observing closely.