October 10, 2024 / 14:43 IST
(Representative Image: Canva)
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is closely monitoring three asteroids passing Earth on October 10, 2024. Although none present a risk, their close approach provides a unique research opportunity. Each asteroid offers valuable data that could enhance our understanding of space objects.
Asteroid 2024 SM: Airplane-Sized Space Visitor
The first asteroid, 2024 SM, measures about 91 feet wide. It will pass Earth at a safe distance of 1,760,000 kilometres. This is further than the Moon’s distance from Earth, making it a perfect object for study.
- Size: 91 feet
- Closest Approach: 1,760,000 kilometres
- Date: October 10, 2024
Asteroid 2024 TN2: Airplane-Sized Rock
Asteroid 2024 TN2 is larger, measuring around 99 feet in width. This asteroid will pass Earth safely, with its closest approach being 2,500,000 kilometres away. Scientists are eager to gather data from its flyby.
- Size: 99 feet
- Closest Approach: 2,500,000 kilometres
- Date: October 10, 2024
Asteroid 2024 TW1: Airplane-Sized Object
The third, 2024 TW1, is about 79 feet wide. It will pass at 2,920,000 kilometres, a safe distance that still allows detailed observation by NASA’s instruments.
- Size: 79 feet
- Closest Approach: 2,920,000 kilometres
- Date: October 10, 2024
These asteroid flybys offer a significant opportunity for NASA researchers to study their movement and composition. While none pose a danger to Earth, NASA’s continuous monitoring of space objects is vital.
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