In exciting news for space enthusiasts, five asteroids of varying sizes are due to pass by the Earth. According to NASA, these asteroids do not pose any threat to our planet.
The largest asteroid, named JA5, is expected to pass by on September 6 at a distance of approximately 3.17 million miles. Although this may sound like a close encounter, it is actually a safe distance.
Two other asteroids, QC5 and GE, both about the size of an airplane, are set to pass by on September 8. QC5 measures approximately 79 feet in size, while GE is slightly smaller, measuring around 26 feet, about the size of a bus. Again, NASA assures us that there is no need to worry as these asteroids will not come anywhere near our planet.
QF6, yet another airplane-sized asteroid, will travel about 1.65 million miles away from Earth on September 10, making it the closest approach of the five asteroids.
Lastly, on September 12, a fifth asteroid, also the size of a bus, will pass by measuring approximately 25 feet. This will mark the end of a week filled with celestial events.
In order to keep track of these asteroids and others, NASA has developed the Asteroid Watch dashboard. This system allows scientists and enthusiasts alike to monitor asteroids and comets that make close approaches to Earth.
While acknowledging the excitement surrounding these asteroids, NASA also wants to remind us of the bigger picture. There are currently over 30,000 catalogued asteroids near Earth, none of which pose a threat for the next 100 years. These asteroids are remnants from the formation of the solar system, which began roughly 4.6 billion years ago.
So, while we can marvel at the beauty and mystery of these asteroids passing by, we can also rest assured knowing that NASA is monitoring their movements to ensure the safety of our planet. Enjoy the show, space enthusiasts!
“Travel aficionado. Incurable bacon specialist. Tv evangelist. Wannabe internet enthusiast. Typical creator.”