NASA tracks a giant 520-foot asteroid flying past Earth today at high speed

Asteroid Alert! (Image: Canva)

On a clear night, we gaze at stars and wonder. Occasionally, a giant visitor from space captures our attention. An asteroid roughly the size of a building is heading near Earth. How close will asteroid 2025 FA22 pass by our planet?

How Close Will Asteroid 2025 FA22 Come?

NASA confirmed the asteroid will fly past Earth on September 18. It measures about 520 feet wide and moves fast. Its speed is 24,127 miles per hour. The closest distance will be 523,000 miles from Earth. That may seem far but is very close by space standards. The asteroid belongs to the Aten group. This group crosses Earth’s orbit regularly. Despite its size, experts say it is not dangerous. NASA considers asteroids hazardous only if closer than 7.4 million kilometres. Also, it must be wider than 85 metres. 2025 FA22 does not meet either condition.

Why Do Space Agencies Monitor Asteroids So Closely?

Even harmless flybys are important for scientists. Could a small change shift the asteroid’s orbit? That is why agencies track these rocks carefully. Slight differences in orbit might change its future path. Global space organisations stay alert to prevent surprises. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath revealed India’s future plans. India will study bigger asteroids, such as Apophis in 2029. He also hopes for joint projects with NASA, ESA, and JAXA. India aims to send missions to land on asteroids. The purpose is to study their composition closely.

What Makes Asteroid 2025 FA22 Worth Watching?

Although 2025 FA22 poses no threat today, it raises awareness. Why is constant asteroid tracking essential? The calm sky can shift in moments. This asteroid reminds us to stay vigilant. Earth’s eyes will monitor the flyby closely. Scientists stress the need for strong research and observation. Every asteroid flyby helps improve our space knowledge.