Two asteroids are soon to pass near Earth, causing a spectacle in the sky as the new year begins. The space agency claims that there is no immediate danger to Earth, though the passes will be an indication of the growing need to watch the celestial world. These past events also teach scientists about how our solar system was formed so long ago, helping them piece together the entire process.
NASA tracks asteroids 2024 YF7 and YR9 approaching Earth today
NASA is tracking the approach of asteroid 2024 YF7 toward Earth. This asteroid is close to 78 feet in diameter, or about the size of a large airplane. Its closest approach to Earth is set for 2:53 a.m. on January 2. At a speed of 30,367 miles an hour, it will have a distance past Earth at 2,080,000 miles. In addition, they justify the passing distance as large enough to cause no hazard to the planet. The asteroid is predicted to pass by with no impact or interference.
Asteroid 2024 YR9 will be followed by asteroid 2024 YF7. This one is a little smaller, measuring 76 feet in diameter, and it will travel at a speed of 46,338 miles per hour. Its closest approach will also be 2,080,000 miles from Earth. Like its predecessor, this asteroid will not pose any threat. The distance it will cover remains well beyond what could be considered dangerous.
Importance of studying asteroids for solar system insights and planetary defense
Astronomers consider objects like 2024 YF7 very significant because they reveal much about the early solar system. The object itself is estimated to be about 4.6 billion years old, containing matter from the birth of our solar system. Understanding these ancient objects helps scientists make better interpretations about conditions during the formation of the solar system. Moreover, past asteroid impacts have been connected to mass extinction events on Earth, which makes asteroid monitoring even more necessary.
Asteroid study plays a vital role in planetary defense. With better technology like radar systems used by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, scientists are actually able to track exactly where asteroids are headed. This will, in turn enable them to be able to foresee future dangers that may occur in the future and assist in planning ways of ensuring Earth is kept safe. More so, such space explorations as OSIRIS-REx that was able to capture samples from an asteroid and deliver them to Earth help to add to the human knowledge about space.
Monitoring of asteroids
Passage of asteroids and other similar incidents remind the world of how space is dynamic and constantly changing. They are an important means of showing that we should continue to observe and study objects traveling through our solar system. They expand the scientific knowledge of the universe while also increasing the preparedness for any possible future threats. Monitoring asteroids plays a critical role in ensuring that we are prepared to address challenges that may come our way as we continue to explore and learn about the universe.
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