NASA has announced that a 37-foot asteroid called 2024 ON2 will fly close to Earth today, August 12. This colossal asteroid, about the size of a small airplane, is set to zoom past Earth at a distance of 4,180,000 miles, as reported by NASA. This giant asteroid is roughly the length of a small airplane and according to NASA, will come within 4,180,000 miles of our planet. Though the asteroid will come close, 2024 ON2 is no cause for concern as it poses no threat as of now. While large asteroids are rare, smaller ones like this are more frequent, and though 2024 ON2 isn’t a danger, it is being monitored closely. Understanding these near-Earth objects is important for ongoing scientific research.
What are Asteroids? How do scientists predict their path?
Asteroids are minor planets found in the inner solar system, consisting of metal, rock, or a mix of both. These relics from the early Solar System, formed about 4.6 billion years ago, lack atmospheres.
To chart the trajectories of asteroids, scientists blend keen observations, intricate mathematical models, and cutting-edge technology into a cosmic navigation toolkit. While many asteroids remain harmless, some have impacted Earth in the past, causing significant damage.
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These cosmic impacts have shaped Earth’s geological history and influenced the evolution of life. One notable event is the Chicxulub impact, which occurred around 66 million years ago and is believed to have contributed to the mass extinction of dinosaurs—a pivotal moment in Earth’s history. Within our Solar System, notable asteroids include Ceres, Vesta, and Pallas, each varying in size, composition, and orbit.
NASA and other space agencies actively study asteroids to assess any potential risks they may pose to Earth. The goal is to identify potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs) that could one day pose a threat by tracking their trajectories.
Asteroids hold valuable clues about the early Solar System and the formation of water and organic compounds. Missions such as OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 have advanced our understanding by analyzing asteroid compositions, shedding light on the origins of these celestial bodies and their role in the early Solar System.
Shambhu Kumar is a science communicator, making complex scientific topics accessible to all. His articles explore breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to cutting-edge research.
