NASA has been closely monitoring a large asteroid named 2024 ON that recently made a close approach to Earth. The asteroid, which is approximately 1,150 feet long and 590 feet wide, was identified as “potentially hazardous” due to its proximity to our planet.
Asteroids like 2024 ON are tracked by NASA’s Asteroid Watch Dashboard, which monitors objects that come near Earth. The last time an asteroid of this size came close to Earth was nearly a decade ago. NASA experts, including those from the Jet Propulsion.
Asteroid 2024 ON
Asteroid 2024 ON was estimated to be 1,150 feet long and 590 feet wide, making it a “stadium-sized” object. The asteroid traveled at a speed of nearly 20,000 miles per hour as it passed by Earth. NASA classified it as potentially hazardous due to its large size and proximity. This made 2024 ON a significant object of interest for scientists.
Close Approach to Earth
Asteroid 2024 ON passed by Earth at a distance of 621,000 miles. Although this may seem far, it is considered a close approach in terms of space. NASA’s experts have stated that such close encounters with large asteroids only happen every five to ten years. Despite its proximity, there was no danger of the asteroid hitting Earth.
Potentially Hazardous Objects
NASA classified 2024 ON as a “potentially hazardous object” due to its size and close approach to Earth. Objects like 2024 ON are monitored carefully to assess any risk of collision. While potentially hazardous, 2024 ON was determined to pose no threat. NASA’s monitoring systems provide early warnings of any potential danger from such objects.
Historical Context of Large Asteroids
The last time a large asteroid entered Earth’s atmosphere was in 2013 in Russia. That event caused significant damage, highlighting the potential risks of near-Earth objects. However, Earth has not been struck by an asteroid as large as 2024 ON since prehistoric times. This reinforces the rarity of such close encounters.
NASA’s Asteroid Watch Dashboard
NASA’s Asteroid Watch Dashboard tracks near-Earth objects like 2024 ON. The dashboard provides data on the size, speed, and distance of asteroids that approach Earth. It is an essential tool for monitoring potential threats. The information gathered helps scientists understand and predict the movements of these objects.
No Collision Risk from 2024 ON
Despite its close approach, NASA confirmed that asteroid 2024 ON posed no collision risk. For an asteroid to be a threat, it would need to come within a few hundred miles of Earth. NASA’s calculations ensure that such events are carefully monitored. There is no chance of 2024 ON colliding with Earth in the next hundred years.
Other Asteroids Near Earth
Asteroid 2024 ON was one of five asteroids that passed by Earth over a two-day period. The other asteroids were much smaller, with diameters ranging from 51 to 510 feet. These objects passed by Earth at distances between 1.1 to 3.9 million miles. While close in space terms, they posed no threat to our planet.
Speed and Trajectory of 2024 ON
Asteroid 2024 ON was traveling at a speed of 8.8 kilometers per second, or nearly 20,000 miles per hour. Its speed and trajectory were closely monitored by NASA to ensure accurate predictions. Understanding the speed of such objects helps in predicting their future movements. This data is crucial for assessing any potential risks.
Monitoring Near-Earth Objects
NASA continuously monitors near-Earth objects through various programs and tools. These efforts include tracking asteroids and comets that come close to Earth. By gathering data, NASA can predict potential threats and take necessary precautions. This monitoring is an essential part of planetary defense.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of near-Earth objects is key to preventing potential impacts. NASA’s monitoring systems allow for the early identification of asteroids like 2024 ON. This ensures that scientists can assess the risk and plan accordingly. Early detection reduces the chances of unexpected collisions.
Public Safety and Awareness
NASA’s tracking of 2024 ON helped raise public awareness about near-Earth objects. By providing timely information, NASA ensures that the public is informed about potential risks. This transparency helps to prevent panic and ensures that accurate information is available. Public safety is a top priority in NASA’s asteroid tracking efforts.
Future Monitoring and Predictions
NASA will continue to monitor asteroid 2024 ON and other near-Earth objects. The data collected will help predict future movements and potential risks. Continuous monitoring is essential to maintaining planetary safety, and NASA’s efforts ensure that Earth is protected from possible asteroid impacts.
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