Astronomers are giving close attention to asteroid 2024 XS3 this week while it makes its fly-by past Earth on December 18. The 84-foot space rock, being referred to as a “near-miss,” though carries no risk of impact, science says.
The asteroid will pass Earth from a distance of 2,080,000 miles, which is over 16 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Traveling at a speed of 23,423 miles per hour, it will make its closest approach at 01:54 AM IST. Experts reassure the public that this event is harmless but offers a unique observation opportunity.
Why Tracking Asteroids is Crucial
These asteroids, such as 2024 XS3, are leftovers from the early days of the solar system, 4.6 billion years ago. Their study can give important information on Earth’s history. With the memory of the asteroid impact that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs, scientists stress the importance of monitoring these objects.
Tools for Planetary Defence
NASA uses current and cutting-edge technologies including radar and tools from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to track and measure NEOs. Also, missions like OSIRIS-REx, and Hayabusa2 have collected samples from the asteroid. This will help in answering how the solar system was formed.
For planetary defense, the closest pass of Asteroid 2024 XS3 is also important because there is nothing that can be threatened right now. However, events like these enhance knowledge about space.
