Sky watchers are turning their eyes upwards this week. A large asteroid, roughly the size of a stadium, is expected to pass Earth. Though there's no danger, the moment offers a quiet reminder of space’s unpredictable nature.
NASA has confirmed asteroid 2005 VO5 will fly by Earth. The asteroid will make its closest approach on 11 July. Travelling at over 32,000 miles an hour, it will pass at about 3.78 million kilometres away. That may sound far, but in cosmic terms, it’s relatively close.
No Threat, But Still Being Watched
Measuring about 1,200 feet wide, 2005 VO5 belongs to the Aten group. These asteroids have orbits that frequently cross Earth’s path. While this one poses no threat, it still qualifies as noteworthy. NASA monitors any object over 85 metres that comes within 7.4 million kilometres. This asteroid meets the size mark but not the distance.
Scientists are watching closely for any orbital shifts. Even a minor change could turn a safe pass into a future risk. For now, it remains on a harmless path.
India Eyes the Future of Planetary Defence
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is taking no chances. Chairman S. Somanath has outlined future plans involving asteroid monitoring. He recently spoke about the importance of being prepared for potential impacts.
ISRO is also looking ahead to 2029, when the massive asteroid Apophis is expected to make a close approach. The agency aims to collaborate with NASA, ESA, and JAXA on planetary defence. Somanath emphasised that even low-probability threats must not be ignored.
ISRO is planning missions to land on asteroids in the coming years. These efforts will help test technologies that could protect Earth. They’ll also give scientists a better view of how these objects behave in space.
A Reminder From the Cosmos
Though 2005 VO5 will glide safely past Earth, it serves as a reminder. The skies above are full of motion, mystery, and potential danger. As scientists keep watch, the public too may look up—and wonder what might come next.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
