Two large asteroids orbiting the Sun and approaching Earth have caught the attention of NASA. The two asteroids are predicted to be between 500 and 850 meters in diameter.
See also: Study predicts Earth is safe from asteroids for 1,000 years
Asteroids are rocky objects that orbit the Sun. They originate from the formation of the solar system. They can be small boulders or larger bodies with a diameter of several hundred kilometers.
The two asteroids approaching Earth are named 488453 (1994 XD) and 2020 DB5. 488453 (1994 XD) is expected to approach Earth on June 12, while 2020 DB5 will pass close to Earth on June 15. Both asteroids have been classified as potentially hazardous asteroids, as their diameter is greater than 150 meters.
On Monday, asteroid 488453 (1994 XD) will approach Earth at an impressive speed of 77,292 kilometers per hour. During its close approach, the asteroid will come within 31,62,498 kilometers of Earth.
See also: Two asteroids will pass very close to Earth in the next few hours
The asteroid last visited Earth on November 27, 2012, and is currently in orbit. It will return to Earth in 2030, seven years from now.
On June 15, the asteroid (2020 DB5) will pass close to Earth at a distance of approximately 43,08,418 kilometers from the planet. The asteroid is moving at a speed of 34,272 kilometers per hour and last passed close to Earth in 1995.
NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory is tracking the asteroid, which will pass by us on June 15. It is predicted that after this approach , it will not visit Earth again until the year 2048. Its next visit is expected to take place on May 2, 2048, when it will be 5,32,67,313 kilometers from our planet.
Scientists mathematical models and orbital calculations to predict the future trajectory of an asteroid once its current trajectory is determined. These predictions help identify potential close approaches and impacts to Earth.
See also: Two asteroids will soon pass by Earth: Are we in danger?
Although the majority of known asteroids do not pose an immediate threat, it is vital to proactively monitor them to identify potential hazards and assess the need for mitigation strategies in the future.
