Asteroid 2024 ON to Safely Pass Earth at Close Distance
Asteroid 2024 ON, measuring around 720 feet in diameter (the size of two cricket grounds), is set to safely pass Earth today, September 17, at a distance of approximately 997,793 kilometers. Although this distance is more than 2.5 times that between the Earth and the Moon, the asteroid’s speed of 40,233 km/h has garnered attention. Fortunately, NASA has assured that the asteroid poses no threat, but it serves as a reminder of the fascinating yet potentially dangerous objects that traverse our solar system.
A Recent Discovery
Asteroid 2024 ON was discovered by the ATLAS Sky Survey, a system designed to detect near-Earth objects. Since its discovery, the asteroid has been monitored closely by NASA’s Near-Earth Object Observations Program, which is part of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. Researchers aim to study its composition, size, and shape using advanced optical telescopes as the asteroid makes its closest approach to Earth.
A Unique Viewing Opportunity
For space enthusiasts, there’s a chance to witness this phenomenon in real time. The Virtual Telescope Project will live-stream the event on September 15, starting at 19:30 UTC (1:00 AM IST on September 16). The webcast, available at virtualtelescope.eu/webtv, offers a unique opportunity to view this asteroid as it safely flies by our planet.
Preparedness Through Planetary Defense
NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) is also prepared for situations where an asteroid like 2024 ON may pose a real threat. With the help of the JPL’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), NASA continuously tracks and monitors space rocks. Although this particular asteroid is not harmful, the PDCO’s mission is to assess and, if necessary, deflect any future asteroids that could endanger Earth.
A Common Occurrence
Interestingly, close encounters with asteroids like 2024 ON are not rare. According to JPL’s CNEOS, similar events happen approximately once every decade. In fact, a series of smaller asteroids—2024 RQ5, about the size of a bus, and 2024 RM10, the size of a plane—are also set to pass Earth today. While none of these space rocks pose a threat, they highlight the ever-present activity within our solar system.
Asteroid 2024 ON is yet another reminder of the fascinating dynamics of space. While it will safely pass Earth, this event underscores the importance of asteroid monitoring programs like NASA’s, which ensure we remain prepared for any future close encounters. Don’t miss the chance to witness this space spectacle by tuning into the live-streamed event.
