NASA has alerted the public about a 90-foot asteroid, named 2020 PN1, which will pass by Earth today, August 2, 2024, at 6:31 PM IST (13:01 UTC). This asteroid, roughly the size of a small airplane, will be traveling at a speed of about 19,823 km/h.
2020 PN1 is classified as an Apollo asteroid, a type of near-Earth object (NEO) with orbits that intersect Earth’s path. While most NEOs don’t come close enough to pose a threat, some are categorized as potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs). These are typically larger than 460 feet (140 meters) and come within 7.5 million kilometers of Earth. Although 2020 PN1 is much smaller, it is still monitored due to its close approach.
The asteroid will pass at a safe distance of approximately 6.8 million kilometers from Earth, which is close in astronomical terms but far enough to ensure no danger. NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) continuously tracks these objects to assess any potential risks.
If an asteroid like 2020 PN1 were to hit Earth, it could cause regional damage, similar to the 2013 Chelyabinsk event in Russia, where a smaller asteroid caused injuries and property damage. However, with ongoing monitoring and current data, there is no need for concern as 2020 PN1 poses no threat to our planet. NASA’s vigilant tracking ensures we are aware of any potential threats well in advance.
