A massive 160-foot asteroid will fly past Earth today, NASA warns

NASA's Asteroid Alert! (Image: Canva)

Stargazers often enjoy the calm night sky. This week, attention shifts to a fast-approaching visitor. An airplane-sized asteroid is heading towards Earth on 21 August. Scientists worldwide are now keeping a close watch.

How close will asteroid 2025 OB3 come?
NASA confirmed the asteroid’s upcoming flyby earlier this week. The rock measures about 160 feet in width. It will pass at 2,090,000 miles from Earth. That distance may sound safe, but it is close. Space experts describe it as nearby in cosmic terms.

The asteroid belongs to the Aten group. This family is known for crossing Earth’s orbit. Despite its size, experts say it poses no danger. NASA lists a rock as hazardous only under conditions. It must pass within 7.4 million kilometres of Earth. It must also measure more than 85 metres wide. 2025 OB3 does not meet these requirements.

Why do agencies still track such asteroids?
Scientists warn even small changes in orbit can matter. A shift could alter the path of the asteroid. Global space agencies monitor such movements for safety reasons. They keep detailed track of flybys, big or small.

ISRO Chairman S. Somanath spoke about future goals recently. He plans to study large asteroids, including Apophis. That asteroid is expected to pass Earth in 2029. ISRO also seeks partnerships with NASA, ESA and JAXA. India hopes to land spacecraft on asteroids for research.

Why is asteroid 2025 OB3 worth watching?
The rock itself may not be a present danger. Still, it highlights how unpredictable space can become. A peaceful sky could quickly bring sudden surprises. The flyby underlines the need for constant tracking. As 2025 OB3 passes quietly, eyes worldwide will watch.