Earth is targeted by different celestial objects every day, creating a daunting spectacle. These celestial objects vary in size and contribute to the formation of a frightening scene. According to recent news, a massive asteroid will pass near Earth today. Here are the details!
A larger-than-a-bus asteroid is approaching!
Asteroid 2013 WW44, measuring 91 meters in length, is heading towards Earth. Moving at a speed of 11.8 kilometers per second, faster than ten buses, stopping this asteroid proves to be a challenging situation.
NASA’s Near-Earth Object Studies Center calculated that the rock they have been monitoring for the past ten years will pass at a safe distance of 3.3 million kilometers. This is indeed a significant distance. However, considering the size of our solar system, it still seems like a relatively close encounter.
Asteroids often pass by Earth at close distances, but only a few pose a serious threat. Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean that Earth won’t face a dangerous situation in the future. That’s why many agencies, such as NASA and ESA, monitor space for such threats.
NASA is actively seeking ways to deal with a large asteroid projected to be on a collision course with Earth. Last year, they tested a system designed to alter the orbit of such an object. NASA stated on their website, “Relatively few near-Earth objects pass close enough and are large enough for detailed observations, guaranteeing a close-up view.”
Furthermore, they added: “The reason for this is that the gravitational force of planets can gradually cause the orbital path of an object to become a trajectory that intersects with Earth. This allows for the possibility of a future collision.”
So, what are your thoughts on the topic of asteroids and Earth? Don’t forget to share your opinions in the comments section!
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