NASA alerts: At a staggering speed of 16,490 mph, a huge 67-foot asteroid is coming very close to Earth today

Asteroid approaching Earth (Representative image - Canva)

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is closely monitoring asteroid 2025 CA2, which is set to pass by Earth on 18 February 2025. This near-Earth object, approximately 67 feet in diameter, poses no threat to our planet.

Asteroid 2025 CA2 will make its closest approach at 04:33 PM IST, passing at a distance of about 3,170,000 miles from Earth—over five times the distance to the Moon. Travelling at approximately 16,490 miles per hour, the asteroid's trajectory ensures a safe passage.

Understanding Near-Earth Objects

Near-Earth objects (NEOs) are celestial bodies that come within 1.3 astronomical units of Earth. Studying them provides insights into the solar system's formation and potential impact risks.

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NASA employs advanced systems to track NEOs like 2025 CA2. Tools include radar and missions like OSIRIS-REx, which collect asteroid samples. These efforts enhance our understanding of space objects and inform planetary defence strategies.

As asteroid 2025 CA2 safely passes by, NASA continues its vigilant monitoring to ensure Earth's safety from potential cosmic threats.