Asteroid 2024 XN1, measuring approximately 120 feet in diameter, is set to pass Earth on December 24. The asteroid will fly by at a speed of 14,743 miles per hour and be about 16 times farther away from our planet than the Moon-Earth distance. Despite this close approach, scientists assure that there is no danger posed to Earth.
NASA’s Asteroid Watch dashboard tracks asteroids like 2024 XN1 for their closest approaches, providing detailed information on size, distance, and encounter date. The dashboard also highlights the importance of planetary defense efforts, as these space rocks remind us of the need to continue monitoring for potential future risks.
While 2024 XN1 is one of five massive asteroids set to make close approaches to Earth, scientists confirm that none pose a threat to our planet. By monitoring such objects, NASA helps keep the public informed and emphasizes the significance of asteroid tracking in understanding the early solar system’s formation.
Source: https://www.ndtv.com/science/christmas-eve-asteroid-alert-120-foot-space-rock-racing-toward-earth-7290383