Two big asteroids headed towards Earth, NASA tracking closely

• Image Credit: Google

• Jun 12, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Two big asteroids, nearly a kilometre in width, are heading towards Earth...

Digital Desk: Two big asteroids, nearly a kilometre in width, are heading towards Earth. The two asteroids' diameters are estimated to be between 500 and 850 metres.

According to NASA, the two asteroids have been named 488453 (1994 XD) and 2020 DB5. Asteroid 488453 (1994 XD) is scheduled to come close to Earth on June 12, while 2020 DB5 is expected to come close on June 15. Both of these asteroids have been classified as potentially hazardous by NASA due to their diameters of more than 150 metres.

Asteroid 488453 (1994 XD)

Asteroid 488453 (1994 XD) is anticipated to fly past Earth at a speed of 77,292 kilometres per hour. During its close approach to Earth, the asteroid will come as close as 31,62,498 kilometres to our planet.

Asteroid (2020 DB5)

At a speed of 34,272 kilometres per hour, the asteroid (2020 DB5) is expected to come close to Earth at a distance of 43,08,418 kilometres.

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is tracking the asteroid and has stated that the asteroid's next approach to Earth will be on May 2.

After determining an asteroid's orbit, space scientists utilise a variety of mathematical models and orbital computations to forecast its future trajectory. Space scientists' efforts aid in the identification of prospective asteroids' close encounters with Earth.

It should be emphasised that the majority of known asteroids do not pose a significant threat to Earth, but it is critical to discover these objects in order to learn about any prospective threats.