Looking at stars often brings a calm kind of wonder. But every now and then, a visitor from space grabs our full attention. This week, it’s asteroid 2025 OY12 that has scientists watching closely.
NASA Tracks 100-Foot Asteroid Near Earth
NASA has confirmed that asteroid 2025 OY12 is on course. The airplane-sized space rock is moving at 27,422 miles per hour. On August 9, it will pass by Earth at a distance of 984,000 miles.
That may sound like a safe stretch, but in space terms, it's fairly near. The asteroid is about 100 feet wide and belongs to the Aten group, which crosses Earth’s orbit.
Still, scientists say there is no danger. NASA only calls an object hazardous if it is closer than 7.4 million kilometres and wider than 85 metres. 2025 OY12 does not meet those criteria.
Why Scientists Track Close Flybys
Even when no threat exists, flybys are watched closely. A slight shift in orbit could change a rock’s future path. That’s why space agencies like NASA and ISRO stay alert.
ISRO chief S. Somanath recently outlined India’s plans to study asteroids. He mentioned working with NASA, ESA, and JAXA in coming years. Missions to land on asteroids are also being considered.
One key target is Apophis, a much larger asteroid expected to approach in 2029. Scientists hope to learn more about such objects long before they become risky.
Asteroid Reminds Us of Space’s Unpredictability
Though 2025 OY12 poses no risk today, its approach is a reminder. Space is full of surprises, and even quiet skies can change quickly.
This asteroid may pass without a sound, but Earth’s scientists will be watching. It's one more reason why tracking space rocks remains a top priority.
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