Astronomers Monitor Asteroid 2024 XS3: Safe Pass by Earth on 18 December
Astronomers are keeping a close eye on asteroid 2024 XS3 this week as it prepares for a safe flyby of Earth on 18 December. This 84-foot space rock will pass by at a significant distance, and while it’s being labeled a “near miss,” scientists assure there is no risk of impact.
How Close Will It Get?
The asteroid will approach Earth from a distance of 2,080,000 miles, more than 16 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Traveling at an impressive speed of 23,423 miles per hour, it is expected to pass Earth at 01:54 AM IST. Experts stress that there is no danger from this close pass, and it presents a unique opportunity for observation and study.
Why Are Scientists Tracking Asteroids?
Asteroids like 2024 XS3 are ancient relics of the early solar system, dating back 4.6 billion years. They hold vital clues about the formation of Earth and other planets. When their orbits bring them near Earth, tracking them is crucial. The devastating asteroid impact that contributed to the extinction of the dinosaurs is a reminder of the potential dangers, making the study of these objects an ongoing priority for planetary defense.
Tools for Planetary Defense
NASA employs advanced technologies to track near-Earth objects (NEOs), using tools like radar systems and resources from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory for precise monitoring. Missions such as OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 have already collected samples from asteroids, helping scientists unlock the secrets of the solar system’s origins. The flyby of 2024 XS3 serves as a reminder of the importance of planetary vigilance, reinforcing our ability to monitor and understand the space environment.
While there is no immediate risk, events like this deepen our knowledge of space, enhance our readiness for potential future threats, and underscore the value of asteroid research.