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NASA has announced that a 37-foot asteroid, designated 2024 ON2, will make a close approach to Earth today, August 12. This sizable asteroid, comparable in size to a small airplane, is set to pass at a distance of approximately 4,180,000 miles from our planet. While this may sound alarming, NASA assures us that 2024 ON2 poses no threat and is being closely monitored. Although larger asteroids are relatively rare, smaller ones like 2024 ON2 are more common. Understanding these near-Earth objects is crucial for ongoing scientific research.
Asteroids, often referred to as minor planets, are primarily composed of metal, rock, or a combination of both. These remnants from the early Solar System, which formed around 4.6 billion years ago, do not possess atmospheres.
To accurately chart the trajectories of asteroids, scientists employ a sophisticated blend of careful observations, complex mathematical modeling, and advanced technology. While many asteroids are harmless, some have impacted Earth in the past, resulting in significant damage.
Such cosmic impacts have played a pivotal role in shaping Earth’s geological history and influencing the evolution of life. A notable event is the Chicxulub impact, which occurred approximately 66 million years ago and is widely believed to have contributed to the mass extinction of the dinosaurs—a defining moment in the planet’s history. Within our Solar System, prominent asteroids include Ceres, Vesta, and Pallas, each differing in size, composition, and orbital characteristics.
NASA, along with other space agencies, actively investigates asteroids to evaluate any potential risks they may present to Earth. The primary objective is to identify potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs) that could pose a threat in the future by meticulously tracking their trajectories.
Asteroids are also of great scientific interest, as they contain valuable insights into the early Solar System and the origins of water and organic compounds. Missions such as OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 have significantly enhanced our understanding by analyzing the compositions of these celestial bodies, shedding light on their formation and their roles in the early Solar System.
