Three asteroids moving towards Earth at a scary speed to visit tomorrow, NASA alerts

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is keeping a close eye on three asteroids set to pass Earth on 11 December 2024.

Sheetal Kumari

December 10, 2024 / 20:01 IST

Asteroid coming towards Earth (Representative Image - Canva)

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is keeping a close eye on three asteroids set to pass Earth on 11 December 2024. While their close approach captures attention, scientists confirm they pose no danger to our planet. These asteroids present unique chances for observation and study.

Asteroid 2018 XU3: Airplane-Sized Rock Zooming By

Asteroid 2018 XU3 measures about 89 feet in width. It will safely pass Earth at 4 million miles. This asteroid offers researchers a chance to study its structure.

Attributes	Details
Approximate Size	89 feet
Closest Earth Approach	4,000,000 miles
Date of Closest Approach	December 11, 2024

Asteroid 2024 XZ11: A Similar-Sized Space Visitor

Asteroid 2024 XZ11 is slightly smaller, measuring 71 feet. It will pass Earth at 2.92 million miles, still far enough to pose no risk.

Attributes	Details
Approximate Size	71 feet
Closest Earth Approach	2,920,000 miles
Date of Closest Approach	December 11, 2024

Asteroid 2024 XL11: A Smaller Visitor

Asteroid 2024 XL11 is much smaller, measuring just 20 feet. Despite its size, it will safely pass Earth at 735,000 miles.

Attributes	Details
Approximate Size	20 feet
Closest Earth Approach	735,000 miles
Date of Closest Approach	December 11, 2024

NASA’s JPL Monitors Asteroids Closely

NASA’s JPL continues to monitor these asteroids carefully. While they pose no threat, their proximity offers a valuable chance to study space objects. Understanding these celestial visitors is key to further space research and safety.