NASA alerts: A massive airplane-sized asteroid, 2019 NW5, is coming very close to Earth today

Asteroid Alert! (Image: Canva)

If you look up this week, you’re not alone. Astronomers across the globe are tracking a visitor from space that will soon pass by Earth, quietly and safely.

Aircraft-Sized Asteroid Set for Close Approach

NASA has confirmed that asteroid 2019 NW5 is on the move. The space rock, roughly 200 feet wide, is travelling at 36,900 miles per hour. It will make its closest approach to Earth on July 9.

At its nearest, the asteroid will pass about 3.62 million kilometres from Earth. While that may seem distant, astronomers consider it a near approach. The asteroid belongs to the Aten group, a class of space rocks that often cross Earth’s orbit.

Despite the attention, NASA has ruled out any threat. It does not meet the conditions needed to be labelled hazardous. That would require it to come within 7.4 million kilometres and be larger than 85 meters. Still, experts are watching closely for any sudden orbital changes.

ISRO Stresses Importance of Planetary Defence

India’s space agency, ISRO, is also monitoring the flyby. Chairman S. Somanath has highlighted the growing importance of planetary defence planning. While 2019 NW5 poses no risk, Somanath believes future objects may not be as harmless.

Looking ahead, ISRO is preparing to track the asteroid Apophis, due to approach in 2029. The agency is aiming to collaborate with NASA, ESA, and JAXA for observation and research efforts.

Somanath also noted ISRO’s interest in asteroid landing missions. These could help gather data and test deflection technologies for future threats.

A Reminder from the Cosmos

Although this asteroid will pass without incident, the event serves as a reminder. Earth’s skies remain full of moving objects, each with the potential to surprise. Watching the heavens is no longer just for astronomers—it’s for everyone.