An asteroid “the size of two large football fields” will near Earth this month. The rock is due to make its way down on September 15 and will pass just 620,000 miles from Earth – described, worryingly, in cosmic terms as a “close call”.
The asteroid measures 720 foot wide and is roughly the size of two football fields. This makes it one of the largest near-Earth objects to whizz by Earth in 2024, according to Business Today.
The asteroid has been named ‘2024 ON’ and is being watched intently by NASA, which keeps a close eye on near-Earth objects to review any potential risks to Earth and its inhabitants.
Objects like 2024 ON are examined as they surpass 150 meters and pass within 4.6 million miles of Earth. NASA is always trying out new technology in a bid to alter asteroids’ courses and ultimately protect Earth.
In fact, the asteroid’s visit will give scientists a rare chance to gather data on its movement and composition. The event will also give space enthusiasts in the northern hemisphere the chance to watch the spectacle unfold.
Related video: Animation Shows How A 10 Meter Asteroid Passes Earth Closer Than The Moon In Orbit (Dailymotion)
Asteroids like 2024 ON are made up from rocky materials like nickel and iron, and were formed over four billion years ago. It comes after a meteor was spotted shooting over the Statue of Liberty in New York in July.
The meteor disintegrated approximately 30 miles above Midtown Manhattan, according to NASA. The celestial object made its way through the atmosphere over New York around 11:15am.
This is the same time New Yorkers reported seeing a fiery streak dart across the sky as well as a slight tremor beneath their feet.
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