Two mammoth space rocks hurtle towards Earth, raising concerns over potential impact
As Earth braces for a celestial close call, NASA issues an urgent alert regarding two colossal asteroids hurtling towards our planet. With each asteroid towering over 1800 feet in size, these cosmic behemoths pose a potential threat to Earth’s safety.
Asteroid 2013 NK4 and Asteroid 2015 DE198: Unveiling the Giants
Asteroid 2013 NK4, an imposing space entity measuring a staggering 1900 feet, dwarfs typical celestial objects encountered in our cosmic vicinity. Racing towards Earth at an astonishing velocity of 59,363 km/h, this colossal asteroid is akin to a giant bridge hurtling through space. Today, on April 15th, it is slated to make its closest approach, skimming a mere 2.02 million miles from our planet.
Simultaneously, Asteroid 2015 DE198, standing at an impressive 1800 feet in size, hurtles towards Earth at a fiery speed of 51,051 km/h. While it is expected to maintain a distance of approximately 4.37 million miles from Earth, the sheer magnitude of these space rocks prompts scrutiny over potential risks.
Assessing the Threat
While the thought of such mammoth asteroids barreling towards Earth may evoke concern, NASA reassures that diligent monitoring ensures our safety. Despite their imposing size, these asteroids are classified as potentially hazardous, warranting close observation to mitigate any potential risks associated with their trajectories.
NASA’s Vigilant Surveillance
NASA’s robust asteroid monitoring system employs state-of-the-art observatories and radar initiatives to track celestial objects. Leading the charge are observatories such as Pan-STARRS, the Catalina Sky Survey, and NASA’s NEOWISE mission, along with forthcoming endeavors like the NEO Surveyor. Complementing these efforts are planetary radar initiatives, including JPL’s Goldstone Solar System Radar Group, pivotal in NASA’s NEO Observations Program.
While the spectacle of massive asteroids hurtling through space may captivate the imagination, NASA’s vigilant surveillance ensures that Earth remains safeguarded against potential cosmic threats.
