Skyscraper-Size Asteroid Flew Close To The Earth Than The Moon, Leaving Scientists Unaware For Two Days
Last week, a skyscraper-size asteroid flew close to the earth than the moon, leaving scientists unaware for two days. The asteroid with a size of a 20-story building zoomed past at a distance roughly a quarter of that between our planet and the moon.
Author:Camilo WoodReviewer:Dexter CookeJul 21, 20231.3K Shares266.5K Views
Last week, a skyscraper-size asteroid flew close to the earth than the moon, leaving scientists unaware for two days. The asteroid with a size of a 20-story building zoomed past at a distance roughly a quarter of that between our planet and the moon.
This asteroid, now named 2023 NT1, measures approximately 200 feet wide (60 meters) and was hurtling at an estimated speed of 53,000 mph (86,000 km/h), as reported by NASA. What's remarkable is that astronomers only became aware of its presence two days after the close encounter.
The space rock, due to its approach from the direction of the sun, remained hidden from telescopic observation, as the sun's glare obstructed the view until after it had already passed by. It was on July 15 when a telescope in South Africa, part of the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) - an array of telescopes designed to detect asteroids days to weeks before potential impacts - finally spotted the asteroid as it was departing from our vicinity.
Subsequently, more than a dozen other telescopes confirmed its existence, according to the International Astronomical Union's Minor Planet Center. Fortunately, there was no impact, but this event serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance in monitoring near-Earth objects for our planet's safety.
Asteroid 2023 NT1's surprise approach may have caught astronomers off guard, but fortunately, its size is not large enough to pose a threat as a potentially hazardous object. Extensive calculations of its trajectory for the next decade have shown no immediate risk of impact. Moreover, recent research indicates that Earth can rest easy from the danger of large, extinction-inducing asteroids for at least the next 1,000 years.
Nonetheless, the sun remains a known blind spot in the search for near-Earth asteroids, and 2023 NT1 is just one of several stealthy space rocks that have managed to slip past our detection. A similar incident occurred in 2013 when a 59-foot-long (18 m) asteroid traveled a comparable path through the sun's glare and went unnoticed until it exploded over Chelyabinsk, Russia. The resulting shockwave caused damage to buildings and shattered glass over a wide area, leaving nearly 1,500 people injured but fortunately causing no fatalities.
While scientists diligently monitor over 31,000 known near-Earth asteroids, they are acutely aware of the risks posed by the solar blind spot. To address this issue, the European Space Agency is actively developing the NEOMIR mission.
Conclusion
This forthcoming satellite, expected to launch around 2030, will be positioned between Earth and the sun, aiming to detect large asteroids hidden within the bright radiance of our star. Through such efforts, we aim to bolster our ability to safeguard our planet from potential celestial hazards.
Jump to
Camilo Wood
Author
Camilo Wood has over two decades of experience as a writer and journalist, specializing in finance and economics. With a degree in Economics and a background in financial research and analysis, Camilo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his writing.
Throughout his career, Camilo has contributed to numerous publications, covering a wide range of topics such as global economic trends, investment strategies, and market analysis. His articles are recognized for their insightful analysis and clear explanations, making complex financial concepts accessible to readers.
Camilo's experience includes working in roles related to financial reporting, analysis, and commentary, allowing him to provide readers with accurate and trustworthy information. His dedication to journalistic integrity and commitment to delivering high-quality content make him a trusted voice in the fields of finance and journalism.
Dexter Cooke
Reviewer
Dexter Cooke is an economist, marketing strategist, and orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience crafting compelling narratives that resonate worldwide.
He holds a Journalism degree from Columbia University, an Economics background from Yale University, and a medical degree with a postdoctoral fellowship in orthopedic medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina.
Dexter’s insights into media, economics, and marketing shine through his prolific contributions to respected publications and advisory roles for influential organizations.
As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery and laparoscopic procedures, Dexter prioritizes patient care above all.
Outside his professional pursuits, Dexter enjoys collecting vintage watches, studying ancient civilizations, learning about astronomy, and participating in charity runs.
Latest Articles
Popular Articles