As per reliable news agencies, NASA has issued an alert about a large near-Earth object, Asteroid 2022 CE2, set to make a close approach to planet on January 16, 2025.
This enormous asteroid, measuring 370 feet in diameter, approximately the size of a large building—will travel at a staggering speed of 47,721 km/h as it passes Earth.
Asteroid 2022 CE2 belongs to a category of near-Earth objects (NEOs) that NASA monitors closely due to their potential to approach Earth’s orbit.
NASA, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, is a US government agency that is responsible for science and technology related to air and space.
With its impressive size, it is classified as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA). This is said about the objects that come close enough to Earth. Moreover, these are large enough to cause significant damage in the event of an impact.
At its nearest point, Asteroid 2022 CE2 will pass Earth at a safe distance of 4,260,000 kilometers. While this distance might seem close in cosmic terms, it is well outside the threshold of 7.5 million kilometers, which NASA uses to classify a flyby as potentially dangerous. As a result, there is no immediate threat of collision.
If an asteroid of this size were to collide with Earth, the consequences would be catastrophic. A collision involving a 370-foot asteroid could generate energy equivalent to millions of tons of TNT, devastating large areas. The impact could obliterate cities, flatten forests, and trigger shockwaves capable of destroying infrastructure over vast distances. This highlights the importance of tracking and monitoring such celestial objects.
NASA’s Near-Earth Object Program plays a crucial role in tracking and predicting the paths of thousands of NEOs, including potentially hazardous asteroids like 2022 CE2. With advanced observation tools and predictive models, scientists are able to ensure that any potential risks to Earth are identified and assessed well in advance.
Despite its impressive size and speed, Asteroid 2022 CE2 poses no danger to Earth during this flyby. Thanks to NASA’s vigilant monitoring and tracking systems, scientists have confirmed its trajectory and assured the public of a safe passage.
In fact, events like this serve as reminders of the dynamic nature of the solar system and the importance of continued observation to safeguard the planet.
Educationist/Administrator/Editor/Author/Speaker
Commencing teaching in his early twenties, Prof Aggarwal has diverse experience of great tenure in the top institutions not only as an educationist, administrator, editor, author but also promoting youth and its achievements through the nicest possible content framing. A revolutionary to the core, he is also keen to address the society around him for its betterment and growth on positive notes while imbibing the true team spirit the work force along with.
Comments