NASA warns of a 110-foot asteroid speeding towards Earth today at 14,189 miles/h

Asteroid in space (Representative Image: Canva)

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is keeping a close eye on two asteroids, 2022 SR and 2024 RB3, which are due to pass by our planet on 7 September 2024. While the thought of near-Earth objects might raise a few eyebrows, there’s no cause for alarm. Both asteroids will maintain a safe distance, providing an exciting opportunity for scientific observation.

Asteroid 2022 SR: A Giant in Space, But No Threat to Earth

Asteroid 2022 SR, a substantial rock measuring approximately 130 feet across, has garnered attention due to its size and speed. Despite its classification as potentially hazardous, it poses no risk. The asteroid will safely pass Earth at a comfortable distance of about 2.16 million miles, much farther away than the Moon.

• Approximate Size: 130 feet (similar to a small airplane)
• Closest Earth Approach: 2.16 million miles
• Date of Closest Approach: 7 September 2024

Asteroid 2024 RB3: A Closer Encounter, But Still Safe

The second asteroid, 2024 RB3, is smaller at around 32 feet in diameter but will pass much closer to Earth than 2022 SR. This space rock will come within 430,000 miles of our planet, yet it, too, poses no threat. Its proximity, however, offers a unique chance for detailed study.

• Approximate Size: 32 feet (similar to a bus)
• Closest Earth Approach: 430,000 miles
• Date of Closest Approach: 7 September 2024

NASA’s Vigilant Watch on the Cosmos

NASA’s JPL remains on constant alert, monitoring the skies for any potentially hazardous asteroids. This vigilance allows scientists to study these ancient celestial bodies, which have been travelling through space since the early days of our solar system.

While the approach of large asteroids can spark curiosity and concern, there is no danger to our planet from 2022 SR or 2024 RB3. Both will pass safely by, leaving us with nothing more than valuable data and perhaps a renewed appreciation for the wonders of our universe.