Asteroid 2020 GE, the smaller of the two, has a diameter of approximately 26 feet, comparable to a bus.It will pass Earth just beyond the Moon’s orbit, but scientists assure that it will pass safely.
Meanwhile, the recently discovered asteroid 2024 RO11, much larger at 120 feet in diameter, will fly by at a distance of 4,850,000 miles. Although it won’t be visible without a telescope, astronomers equipped with advanced tools should be able to track its path. On September 25, another asteroid, 2024 RK7, measuring 100 feet across, will also safely pass by Earth, smaller than 2024 RO11 but still no cause for concern.
Asteroid 2020 GE and 2024 RO11 will pass Earth
Asteroid 2020 GE, the smaller object, is around 26 feet in diameter, about the size of a bus. It will pass Earth at a distance of 410,000 miles, slightly beyond the Moon’s orbit. Though relatively close, 2020 GE is no threat and will offer a great viewing opportunity for those with specialised telescopes.
On the same day, asteroid 2024 RO11, with a diameter of 120 feet (about the size of an aeroplane), will pass Earth safely at a distance of 4,580,000 miles. This recently discovered asteroid won’t be visible to the naked eye but may be spotted using advanced telescopes.
On September 25, asteroid 2024 RK7, which is 100 feet in diameter, will pass by Earth at a safe distance. Though smaller than 2024 RO11, it also poses no risk to Earth.
Should you be worried?
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory assures that the asteroids will glide smoothly and safely past Earth. Despite their close proximity, they pose no threat. There is no risk of collision between the two asteroids, which will pass by Earth one after the other.
What are asteroids?
Asteroids are rocky, airless remnants from the formation of the solar system around 4.6 billion years ago. Known as “minor planets,” these objects vary in size from small rocks to hundreds of miles in diameter. Most asteroids are found in the asteroid belt, a region between Mars and Jupiter where millions of them orbit the Sun.
Despite being smaller than planets, asteroids can pose a significant threat if they collide with Earth, which is why scientists monitor their movements closely. These space rocks hold valuable clues about the early solar system and are the focus of ongoing space missions.
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