NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory has its eyes on five asteroids. These celestial objects will pass Earth on 11 December 2024. While they pose no danger, scientists view them as unique opportunities for study.
Asteroid 2018 XU3: A Giant Among Them
Asteroid 2018 XU3 is the largest of the group. Measuring about 811 feet, it resembles the size of an airplane. It will pass Earth safely at 4 million miles. Scientists are keen to study its structure and movement.
Size: 811 feet
Closest Distance: 4,000,000 miles
Closest Approach Date: 11 December 2024
Asteroid 2024 XZ11: A Close Visitor
Asteroid 2024 XZ11 is slightly smaller than XU3. At 71 feet wide, it is still large enough for research. Its closest approach will be 2.112 million miles.
Size: 71 feet
Closest Distance: 2,112,000 miles
Closest Approach Date: 11 December 2024
Asteroid 2024 XL11: Small but Noteworthy
Asteroid 2024 XL11 is the smallest in this group. Measuring just 20 feet, it will fly by at 735,000 miles. Despite its size, it offers valuable insights.
Size: 20 feet
Closest Distance: 735,000 miles
Closest Approach Date: 11 December 2024
Asteroid 2024 XK1: Bus-Sized Rock in Space
Asteroid 2024 XK1 is similar in size to a bus. Measuring 31 feet, it will pass at 1.16 million miles. Its proximity allows for detailed observation.
Size: 31 feet
Closest Distance: 1,160,000 miles
Closest Approach Date: 11 December 2024
Asteroid 2024 WB14: Another Airplane-Sized Object
Asteroid 2024 WB14 measures about 86 feet in width. It will safely pass Earth at a distance of 4.3 million miles.
