A massive asteroid is heading towards Earth at high speed. NASA has warned about the 460-foot asteroid 535844 (2015 BY310), which is set to pass closely. The asteroid, travelling at an incredible pace, will make its closest approach on 5 March 2025.
NASA Tracks Potentially Hazardous Asteroid
NASA is closely monitoring this space rock due to its proximity. The asteroid has been classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA). According to the Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), it will pass Earth at a distance of 2,280,000 miles. Despite the close approach, it is not expected to be pulled by Earth's gravity.
The asteroid belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids and is also considered a near-Earth object (NEO). When it reaches Earth, it will travel at an estimated speed of 17,583 miles per hour. Its high velocity increases its kinetic energy, making it highly destructive if it were to impact.
NASA’s Efforts to Detect and Monitor Asteroids
NASA has advanced technology to detect such space threats. It relies on Pan-STARRS, the Catalina Sky Survey, and planetary radar projects to track asteroids. The upcoming NEO Surveyor telescope will be the first space telescope designed specifically to detect hazardous asteroids and comets. Scientists also analyse impact angles to assess potential threats.
Though this asteroid will pass safely, NASA remains vigilant. Continuous monitoring helps predict future encounters and safeguard the planet from possible asteroid threats.
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