Asteroid As Big As Two Football Fields to Whiz Past Earth on Sept 15, Check Details

Washington: A massive asteroid nearly the size of two football fields is set to pass by Earth on September 15, offering a rare opportunity for stargazers and astronomers alike. The asteroid, named 2024 ON, measures approximately 720 feet in width and will come within 620,000 miles of our planet, which is about 2.6 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. While this might seem like a vast distance, in astronomical terms, it’s quite close. However, there is no need for concern as the asteroid is no threat to Earth.

Where to Watch This Once-in-a-Decade Event

This kind of close approach happens only once every decade, according to the Virtual Telescope Project. The asteroid will be visible from the Northern Hemisphere, providing a spectacular sight for those interested in celestial events. Skygazers can observe the asteroid's approach starting at 2:30 p.m. ET on September 15, either through the Virtual Telescope's live feed or with the help of telescopes or strong binoculars, given clear skies.

The flyby of asteroid 2024 ON is not just a visual treat but also a significant event for scientists. It presents a unique opportunity for astronomers to gather important data about the asteroid’s composition, speed, rotation, and orbital path. This information is crucial for improving our understanding of Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) and the broader dynamics of our solar system.

‘2024 ON’ is No Threat

NASA, which constantly monitors asteroids and other NEOs, classifies any object larger than 492 feet in diameter and closer than 4.6 million miles as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA). While 2024 ON is not considered a threat, NASA’s efforts to study and mitigate asteroid risks continue, including the development of asteroid deflection technologies like the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission. This mission aims to test whether a spacecraft can alter the course of an asteroid through a kinetic impact, potentially preventing future collisions with Earth.

What are Asteroids?

Asteroids, according to NASA, are remnants from the formation of the solar system 4.6 billion years ago. These rocky bodies vary greatly in size, shape, and composition, with some containing metals like nickel and iron. The study of asteroids like 2024 ON helps scientists unlock the mysteries of our solar system’s past and develop strategies to protect our planet from future impacts.

NASA's Near-Earth Object Surveyor Mission to Launch in 2027

Scientists have identified over 34,000 near-Earth objects, with just over 2,300 classified as potentially hazardous. However, NASA believes many more remain undiscovered, posing a potential risk. If a large asteroid were on a collision course with Earth, experts estimate that we would need at least five to ten years of advance warning to effectively destroy or deflect it.

In response to this threat, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory is developing the Near-Earth Object Surveyor mission, slated for launch in September 2027. This mission will deploy an infrared space telescope into Earth's orbit, enhancing NASA's ability to detect and monitor near-Earth objects that could pose a danger to our planet.