Asteroid 2024 OR1, a massive space rock about 110 feet in diameter, is currently close to Earth. NASA has issued a warning because it’s traveling at an incredible speed of over 30,000 kilometers per hour. The asteroid belongs to the Apollo group, which intersects with Earth’s orbit, making it important for astronomers and space agencies.
NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies detected the asteroid as part of its continuous monitoring of NEOs that could be a threat to Earth. The closest approach is on August 6, 2024, at 6:41 PM IST, but the asteroid will safely pass by Earth without colliding.
Asteroids like 2024 OR1 are leftover pieces from the early solar system and vary in size and shape. Studying them helps us understand how our solar system formed and evolved. NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office tracks and characterizes potentially hazardous asteroids and comets that come close to Earth.
The speed and size of 2024 OR1 make it an interesting object to study. Its velocity is comparable to other fast-moving NEOs, and its size is roughly equivalent to a blue whale.
NASA’s warning comes amid a series of close encounters with other asteroids. The agency regularly updates its database of known asteroids and comets, providing information on their orbits, sizes, and potential risks.
While the asteroid poses no immediate danger, it highlights the importance of vigilance and continued research in planetary defense. As technology advances and our understanding of NEOs improves, we can better protect our planet from potential cosmic hazards.
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Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/blue-whale-sized-110ft-asteroid-heading-towards-earth-at-a-speed-of-30381-km/h-nasa-warns/articleshow/112284914.cms