Between August 27 and September 1, at least five asteroids––which do not pose any immediate threat––are expected to fly by Earth. Asteroids, each time they cross Earth, offer significant opportunities for astronomers and researchers to closely study their components. Such closer examinations can lead to vital clues about the origin story of the Universe.
Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory actively tracks asteroids and shares vital information with the world. The laboratory has given some details about the asteroids that are approaching Earth.
Asteroid 2020 RL
The first asteroid named 2020 RL is expected to make its closest approach to Earth on August 27 by coming within a distance of 46.8 lakh km. This 110-feet asteroid is as big as a modern-day aeroplane. Nasa monitors such asteroids in its efforts to track near-Earth objects helping scientists assess the potential impacts and understand the dynamics of objects within the solar system.
Asteroid 2021 RA10
The 2021 RA10 asteroid is 92 feet and is also as big as an aircraft. This asteroid is expected to make its closest approach––within a range of 26.1 lakh km––on August 28. Objects of this size are commonplace and astronomers track their orbits to assess future risks. This kind of flybys allow scientists to study the characteristics and behaviour of asteroids, and help implement planet defence strategies.
Asteroid 2012 SX49
This asteroid is roughly the size of a house and has a 64-feet diameter. The 2012 SX49 will make its closest approach to Earth at 42.9 lakh km on August 29. Similar to other asteroids, this space rock will pass at a safe distance. Monitoring asteroids help scientists refine their predictions about future approaches and ensure that potential threats are identified well in advance.
Asteroid 2016 RJ20
It is 210 feet in size and will be as close as 69.9 lakh km to Earth on August 30. There is no risk associated with this asteroid which also is roughly the size of an aeroplane. Asteroids of this size and magnitude are fairly common.
Asteroid 2021 JT
This is perhaps the smallest asteroid approaching Earth at this point of time. The 2021 JT Asteroid will pass by at a safe distance of 63.6 lakh km. Scientists keep a track on this too, despite its small stature.
Can asteroids destroy Earth?
The damage caused by an asteroid is mainly dependent on its size. It needs to be noted that only an asteroid as big as Earth can destroy us. There have been no known dangerous impacts so far. However, small meteors keep crossing Earth on a daily basis. The Planetary Science Institute says that an asteroid needs to be at least 16 feet wide to land on Earth. Also, based on statistics, most asteroids have a high chance of falling into the ocean or areas of Earth that are largely uninhabited.
