Earth will witness two celestial visitors on 7 December. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is tracking asteroids 2024 WG3 and 2024 XB3. While their approach sparks curiosity, scientists confirm they pose no danger. Instead, they offer a chance to study space objects formed billions of years ago.
Asteroid 2024 WG3: A Giant Flying by Safely
Asteroid 2024 WG3 is about 120 feet wide. Comparable to a small airplane, it is classified as "potentially hazardous." Despite this, it will safely pass Earth at 4,370,000 miles away. This distance is far beyond the Moon’s orbit, ensuring no risk to the planet.
Asteroid 2024 XB3: Smaller but Closer
The second asteroid, 2024 XB3, is smaller at 29 feet. It will pass closer to Earth, at 2,090,000 miles. While closer than 2024 WG3, it also poses no threat. Its proximity, however, makes it an interesting subject for observation.
NASA’s Vigilance Brings Space Insights
NASA’s JPL constantly tracks near-Earth asteroids, calculating their trajectories. This monitoring helps ensure safety and aids research. By studying these ancient objects, scientists uncover clues about the solar system’s history.
Both asteroids will pass safely without any harm to Earth. Their journeys highlight the importance of monitoring space and studying celestial phenomena.
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