NASA alerts about a huge 84-foot, airplane-sized asteroid coming very close to Earth today

Asteroid coming towards Earth (Representative Image - Canva)

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is closely monitoring an asteroid that will pass Earth on 21 January 2025. Named 2017 BN92, the space rock poses no threat to the planet.

How Close Will It Get?
Asteroid 2017 BN92, measuring 84 feet wide, will pass safely by at a distance of 1,120,000 miles. This is more than 16 times the Moon’s distance from Earth. Travelling at a speed of 13,919 miles per hour, the asteroid will make its closest approach at 15:45 IST. Despite being classified as a near-Earth object, experts confirm it poses no danger.

Why Monitor Asteroids?
Asteroids like 2017 BN92 are remnants from the solar system’s formation 4.6 billion years ago. These objects orbit the Sun and sometimes cross Earth’s path. Tracking them is crucial, as past collisions, like the event that wiped out the dinosaurs, demonstrate their potential risk.

NASA uses advanced tracking systems, including radar, to monitor asteroid trajectories. Missions such as OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 have collected samples, offering insights into the solar system’s history.

Focus on Planetary Defence
Though 2017 BN92 is not a threat, its flyby highlights planetary defence efforts. Monitoring near-Earth objects helps scientists prepare for possible future risks. Each observation advances our understanding of these celestial bodies and strengthens plans to protect Earth.