NASA has issued an alert to Earth tomorrow for about a 96-foot aeroplane-sized asteroid that will come scarily close to Earth. Asteroid 2024 NM3 is set to make its closest approach on August 15, 2024.
The space rock is expected to pass by at 484,000 miles from our planet. 484,000 miles distance is roughly twice the average distance between the Earth and the Moon.
What is Asteroid 2024 NM3?
Asteroid 2024 NM3 is part of the Aten asteroid group. These asteroids have orbits that bring them close to Earth. If we compare this 96-feet diameter asteroid in size, it is the same as the size of a small aeroplane.
Despite its size, it does not pose a significant threat to Earth. However, its close approach reminds us of the importance of monitoring near-Earth objects (NEOs).
Speed and Distance
According to NASA’s data, 2024 NM3 is traveling at a speed of 26,525 kilometers or 16,482 miles per hour. With this speed, it will pass by Earth at a distance of 484,000 miles.
The average distance between the Earth and the Moon is about 239,000 miles, and the asteroid distance is 484,000 miles. So, 2024 NM3 will be about twice that distance from us.
Why is NASA Monitoring 2024 NM3?
NASA continuously monitors Near-Earth objects (NEOs) to ensure they do not harm our Earth. NASA made a criterion for choosing potentially hazardous asteroids; according to that criterion, if asteroids are over 150 meters (492 feet) in diameter and come within 4.6 million miles of Earth, they are considered potentially hazardous.
Although Asteroid 2024 NM3 is smaller and does not meet this criterion, it is still closely watched. This is because even smaller asteroids can also cause significant damage to Earth if they were to collide with Earth.
The Importance of Monitoring NEOs
Monitoring such asteroids like 2024 NM3 is important for planetary defence. By tracking these objects, scientists can predict their future paths and assess any potential threat they may pose.
NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) tracks and analyses Near Earth Objects. CNEOS uses data from telescopes and radar to study these objects and predict their future orbits.
What If 2024 NM3 Deviates from Its Path?
While 2024 NM3 is not expected to hit Earth, any deviation from its path could change that. Even a small deflection could lead the asteroid to a collision course with Earth.
This is why continuous monitoring is essential. NASA and other space agencies like ISRO and ESA are working on solutions to deflect potentially hazardous asteroids if needed.
Future Missions and Research
The European Space Agency (ESA) plans a mission called Ramses to visit near-Earth asteroid 99942 Apophis in 2029. This mission aims to study and deflect NEOs.
The Ramses mission will launch in April 2028 and reach Apophis in February 2029. Such missions are crucial for developing strategies to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts.
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