New Delhi: The US space agency NASA has released a new report confirming that two asteroids are set to pass close to Earth on August 10, 2024. While such space activities are common, certain cosmic movements can potentially have significant effects on our planet. According to NASA, the two asteroids, named 2024 KH3 and 2024 PK1, will approach Earth, raising questions about the potential impact of their proximity.
The NASA small-body database Lookup reveals that asteroid 2024 KH3 is an exceptionally large space rock, traveling at a speed of 11.42 kilometers per second, equivalent to 41,125 kilometers per hour. Alongside KH3, another asteroid, 2024 PK1, will also make its close pass by Earth. This second asteroid measures approximately 110 feet in size. Both asteroids are expected to pass within roughly 40 million miles of Earth.
Despite their proximity, NASA has assured that these asteroids pose no threat to our planet. The agency has stated that both asteroids are on their long journeys through the universe and will not cause any harm as they pass by.
NASA has emphasized the importance of monitoring such space objects, as past incidents have shown that smaller asteroids and space debris can impact Earth, albeit with minimal effects. Keeping a close watch on these celestial bodies allows space agencies to take necessary precautions if needed.
In other news, NASA has provided an update on Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, who is currently on a mission in space. Williams, along with astronaut Barry Wilmore, is part of NASA’s Crew-9 mission aboard SpaceX’s spacecraft. Originally scheduled to return after a seven-day mission, Williams has now been in space for over two months due to technical issues. NASA announced on Friday that their return date could be extended to February 2025.
The extended stay in space is not considered a success for Boeing Starliner, as the delays indicate technical challenges that need to be addressed. However, NASA continues to ensure the safety and well-being of its astronauts as they complete their extended mission.
As Earth continues to observe the movements of these asteroids and NASA’s ongoing space missions, the agency remains vigilant in monitoring space activities that could potentially impact our planet.
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