An asteroid the size of a skyscraper is set to make a close pass by Earth on Friday, providing astronomers and space enthusiasts with a thrilling celestial event. While the news of an asteroid approaching our planet may sound alarming, there is no need to panic as this massive space rock will safely miss us by a significant distance.
According to NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies, the asteroid, known as 2008 OS7, will come within 1.7 million miles (2.7 million kilometers) of Earth. To put this into perspective, it is about seven times the distance between our planet and the moon. This means that there is absolutely no chance of a collision or any harm coming to Earth.
What makes this asteroid particularly fascinating is its enormous size. With estimates ranging from 690 to 1,575 feet (210 to 480 meters) across, it is comparable in dimensions to iconic structures like New York City’s Empire State Building or Chicago’s Willis Tower. Just imagine a colossal skyscraper hurtling through space!
Discovered in 2008, this asteroid has been closely monitored by scientists ever since. However, after its upcoming visit, it won’t be returning until 2032. Even then, the encounter will be much more distant, with the asteroid staying a staggering 45 million miles away from Earth. So, for those hoping for another close encounter anytime soon, patience will be key.
Interestingly, this flyby is not the only exciting event happening in our cosmic neighborhood this week. In addition to 2008 OS7, three smaller asteroids will also make harmless passes by Earth on Friday. These asteroids are no more than tens of yards across, posing no threat whatsoever. And if that wasn’t enough, two more asteroids are expected to buzz by on Saturday. It seems like our planet is in for a celestial show!
To top it all off, on Sunday, an asteroid roughly half the size of 2008 OS7 will swing by, staying at a distance of 4.5 million miles away. While not as massive as its counterpart, this asteroid is still a significant object in space and adds to the excitement of this eventful weekend.
So, mark your calendars and get ready to witness these incredible celestial encounters. While we may not be able to see these asteroids with the naked eye, astronomers and space agencies will be closely observing and studying them. These encounters provide valuable opportunities to learn more about our solar system and the objects that inhabit it.
Remember, there is no need to worry about these asteroids. They are simply passing through, giving us a glimpse into the vastness of our universe. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show as these cosmic visitors make their way through our cosmic neighborhood.