Besides planets, and stars, space is also home to numerous celestial bodies, some of which have the potential to be significant hazards for us. To anticipate the dangers posed by asteroids and other celestial bodies, we have been observing space for a long time.
The newly detected asteroid could potentially be hazardous for our planet
Vera C. Rubin Observatory, dedicated to observing space hazards, has now identified the first asteroid that could potentially be a threat. The observatory’s research has revealed an algorithm indicating that an asteroid could pose a danger to our world in the future.
Currently, the asteroid 2022 SF289 is approximately 600 million kilometers away from Earth. This celestial body, measuring approximately 180 meters in size, falls into the category of potentially hazardous asteroids (PHA). Although this asteroid is about four times the distance from Earth to the Sun, its orbit could still pose a threat to us.
Asteroids considered potentially hazardous are those deemed large enough by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory to survive passing through Earth’s atmosphere and potentially cause significant damage in the area where they fall.
However, experts currently state that there is no immediate threat. It has been noted that previously identified potentially hazardous asteroids have entered our solar system but departed without causing any harm. Experts expect the same outcome for asteroid 2022 SF289.
Another crucial point concerning 2022 SF289 is that it was detected by a new algorithm called HelioLinc3D. This algorithm is expected to allow for the identification of celestial bodies that could pose a danger to Earth with fewer observations. Consequently, it will help prevent overlooked dangers from materializing.
Space remains filled with many unknowns, and humankind continually observes space in an attempt to protect ourselves from potential hazards. So, what are your thoughts on the possibility of an asteroid threat? Feel free to share your views in the comments section.
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