Double asteroid alert: Massive airplane-sized asteroid approaching Earth at dangerous speed on August 28, NASA warns.

(Representative Image: Canva)

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is carefully monitoring two asteroids that are set to make close approaches to Earth on August 28. While these space travellers won’t pose any danger to our planet, their proximity presents a unique opportunity for scientific exploration and observation.

The first of these space rocks, known as Asteroid 2024 QG, measures around 130 feet in diameter. It will safely pass Earth at a distance of approximately 1,030,000 kilometres, giving scientists a chance to study its composition and trajectory in detail.

• Approximate Size: 130 feet
• Closest Earth Approach: 1,030,000 kilometres
• Date of Closest Approach: August 28, 2024

The second asteroid, Asteroid 2021 RA10, is slightly smaller, with an estimated width of 92 feet. It will make its closest approach from a distance of about 1,620,000 kilometres, another safe but significant flyby for astronomers to observe.

• Approximate Size: 92 feet
• Closest Earth Approach: 1,620,000 kilometres
• Date of Closest Approach: August 28, 2024

NASA’s JPL remains vigilant, tracking these asteroids as they journey past our planet. Although neither asteroid is a threat, their near approaches underscore the importance of continuous space monitoring. These cosmic close encounters not only enhance our understanding of near-Earth objects but also remind us of the dynamic nature of our solar system.