NASA Alert! Massive airplane-sized asteroid racing towards Earth at high speed today.

Scientists are always vigilant when it comes to monitoring asteroids, and for good reason. The impact of a significant asteroid strike on Earth could be catastrophic. Theories suggest that the colossal asteroid that struck Earth around 66 million years ago, leading to the extinction of the dinosaurs, left behind devastating consequences. To prepare for any potential threats, NASA and other space agencies continuously observe these space objects.

Now, another asteroid, approximately the size of an airplane, is on its way toward Earth. The asteroid, known as 2024 PK2, will make its closest approach on August 11. According to NASA, this space rock measures about 25 feet in diameter and will pass within 1,280,000 kilometres of our planet at its nearest point. Asteroid 2024 PK2 belongs to the Aten group, a collection of asteroids with orbits that frequently intersect Earth's.

Is this asteroid a threat? Not according to NASA. An asteroid is only considered potentially hazardous if it comes within 4.6 million miles (7.4 million kilometres) of Earth and measures more than 150 metres in size. While 2024 PK2 doesn't meet these criteria, its proximity still warrants attention. Even a slight deviation from its predicted orbit could alter its trajectory, potentially sending it toward Earth. However, NASA assures us that 2024 PK2 poses no risk of impact and will safely pass by.

Nevertheless, the importance of tracking such asteroids cannot be overstated. The Chairman of ISRO, S. Somanath, is particularly focused on planetary defence against potential asteroid impacts. He is preparing to observe Asteroid 99942 Apophis, which is expected to come close to Earth on April 13, 2029. India may collaborate with JAXA, ESA, and NASA on this mission. Somanath has emphasised the need for planetary defence, noting that an asteroid impact could have disastrous consequences. Looking ahead, plans are in place for asteroid landing missions to assess impact risks and develop strategies to protect our planet.