Massive airplane-sized, 140-foot asteroid to cross paths with Earth tomorrow, NASA alerts

Massive 140-foot, airplane-sized asteroid to cross paths with Earth today, NASA alerts (Image: Canva)

• Asteroid 2007 EG will pass Earth on 13 March, no threat posed
• The asteroid will remain about 1,060,000 miles from Earth
• India plans to join global asteroid research and future missions

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Scientists are closely monitoring a space rock known as Asteroid 2007 EG, which will make a notable pass near Earth on 15 March. The object is drawing attention from astronomers because of its size, speed and orbit that crosses Earth’s path. Space agencies emphasise there is no danger from the asteroid, yet its approach highlights the importance of continued observation of near Earth objects.

Asteroid 2007 EG Flyby and Distance from Earth

Astronomers confirmed the asteroid will pass Earth on 15 March. The rock measures roughly 140 feet across, making it noticeable in near Earth monitoring programmes. According to scientists at NASA, the asteroid travels through space at about 17,379 miles per hour. At its closest approach, the object will remain around 1,060,000 miles from Earth.

While this distance appears extremely large, researchers explain that it is considered relatively close in astronomical terms. The asteroid belongs to the Aten group, a class of objects known for orbits that cross the path of Earth around the Sun. Because these bodies regularly travel near the planet’s orbit, they receive careful attention from planetary defence teams worldwide.

Does Asteroid 2007 EG Pose Any Threat?

Experts stress that the object does not present any risk to Earth. Scientists use specific criteria to classify an asteroid as potentially hazardous. NASA generally applies the label only to objects that pass within 7.4 million kilometres of Earth and measure more than 85 metres in diameter. Asteroid 2007 EG fails to meet both conditions.

Even so, astronomers continue to track such objects closely. Slight gravitational influences or other factors can gradually alter an asteroid’s orbit. Continuous monitoring helps scientists detect even small changes in trajectory. These observations allow researchers to refine predictions about future space encounters.

India’s Asteroid Research and Future Missions

Interest in asteroid research is also growing in India. The country’s space agency Indian Space Research Organisation has outlined plans to participate in global asteroid studies. Former chairman S. Somanath recently spoke about India’s intention to examine large near Earth objects more closely.

One major target for future international study is Asteroid Apophis, which is expected to pass Earth in 2029. India hopes to collaborate with global partners including NASA, European Space Agency, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Long term plans could involve sending spacecraft to land on asteroids and analyse their surface materials.

Scientists say studying such bodies reveals clues about the early Solar System. Asteroids contain primitive materials that formed during the birth of planets. Understanding their structure also helps researchers prepare for any possible future threats.

The upcoming flyby of Asteroid 2007 EG offers another opportunity for observation. Although the object poses no danger, astronomers will continue monitoring its movement carefully. Events like this demonstrate why global space agencies maintain constant watch over the skies.