Double Trouble! Two Asteroids Set for Close Flyby Near Earth Today, NASA Warns
NASA has issued an alert that two asteroids are making a close flyby near Earth today. Are they potentially hazardous and do they pose any threat? Here's what you need to know.
Asteroid Threat
Asteroids have always been a source of concern for humanity, especially due to the catastrophic asteroid strike believed to have wiped out the dinosaurs around 66 million years ago. This event underscores the importance of preparing for potential asteroid threats in the future. As a result, space agencies closely monitor these celestial bodies. According to NASA, two significant asteroids are speeding towards Earth on November 23rd. So, are they hazardous? Here’s what NASA has revealed about these upcoming space rocks.
Asteroid 2024 WE
One of the asteroids making its approach today is 2024 WE, a relatively small but fast-moving asteroid. Measuring 29 feet in size (about the size of a bus), it is travelling at a speed of 9,328 km per hour. NASA indicates that it will pass incredibly close to Earth, coming within 635,000 miles (1.02 million km) today.
Asteroid 2024 WY
Another asteroid on course to make a close approach is 2024 WY. About the size of an aeroplane, this asteroid measures 110 feet in size and will pass at a distance of 3.47 million miles from Earth. Moving at a speed of 33,842 km per hour, it is certainly a fast-moving space rock.
Are These Potentially Hazardous?
Fortunately, neither of these asteroids poses a significant threat. NASA only classifies asteroids as "potentially hazardous" if they are over 150 meters in size and come within 4.6 million miles (7.5 million kilometres) of Earth. Since both 2024 WY and 2024 WE do not meet these criteria, they are not considered hazardous.
However, it's essential to continue monitoring asteroids, as any unforeseen changes in their trajectories could pose risks. NASA uses a variety of robotic spacecraft and telescopes to track asteroids up close and keep an eye on any potential threats.
