The world of celestial objects is a fascinating realm, a spectacle that constantly keeps us on our toes.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has been at the forefront of tracking these bodies, especially asteroids, which have potential implications for our home planet.
In its mission to maintain an Asteroid Watch and keep the Earth safe, NASA, alongside organizations such as NOAA, closely monitor near-Earth objects, ensuring timely warnings for any potential threats.
So, what is the next asteroid coming? In the second half of July 2023, there are the next 5 asteroids slated to make their closest approach to Earth. These range in size from as small as a car to as large as an airplane.
On July 19, 2023, two asteroids are set to make their nearest approach to our planet.
1. Asteroid 2023 OA: The first asteroid, aptly named 2023 OA, is a house-sized rock with an approximate size of 58 feet. Its closest earth approach will be at a distance of about 1,470,000 miles.
2. Asteroid 2023 NE1: The second asteroid to visit us that day is 2023 NE1. This one is airplane-sized, about 190 feet, and will pass by at approximately 3,030,000 miles from Earth.
NASA's asteroid tracking system indicates the approach of three more asteroids on July 20, 2023.
3. Asteroid 2020 OM: The first one, 2020 OM, is approximately 44 feet - roughly the size of a house. It will make its closest approach to Earth at a distance of 2,020,000 miles.
4. Asteroid 2022 GX2: Following this is a car-sized asteroid, 2022 GX2, with an approximate size of 15 feet. It will approach us from a distance of about 2,840,000 miles.
5. Asteroid 2023 NL: Lastly, we have another airplane-sized asteroid, 2023 NL, measuring around 140 feet. This one will make its closest Earth approach from a hefty distance of 4,550,000 miles.
NASA's alert system provides us with regular warnings about these asteroids, helping us keep track of potential near-Earth objects (NEOs). However, the question of an asteroid hitting earth today or even in the near future remains moot.
Given the vast distances at which these celestial bodies are passing us, there is no immediate threat of any asteroid hitting Earth.
Nonetheless, NASA's diligent Asteroid Watch continues to closely monitor and track asteroids approaching Earth in 2023 and beyond, ensuring we are forewarned of any potential danger.
Understanding and monitoring these celestial visitors not only helps protect our planet but also provides invaluable information about the origins and characteristics of our solar system.
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