Mumbai, July 26: A massive, bridge-sized Asteroid, 2012 OD1, is predicted to approach Earth on July 28. This celestial body, approximately 2,100 feet in size, has prompted a warning from NASA due to its potential hazards. The size and speed of the asteroid make it particularly concerning if it is not closely monitored. According to NASA data, Asteroid, 2012 OD1 will make its closest approach to Earth at 3,550,000 miles. NASA has classified 2012 OD1 as a "potentially hazardous asteroid" due to its predicted close pass with Earth.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) monitors the celestial objects moving towards the Earth and issues alerts from time to time. Asteroids can be harmful due to their potential to cause significant damage upon impact. The energy released during an impact can lead to widespread destruction, including massive explosions, fires, and tsunamis. Asteroid Alert by NASA: 380-Foot Celestial Rock 2011 MW1 Travelling Towards Earth With Tremendous Speed, Will It Hit Our Planet?

Key Features of Asteroid 2012 OD1

According to a report by Space Reference, Asteroid 2012 OD1 is categorised as an Aten-class asteroid and is comparable in size to a bridge. In 2021, it passed within 15,564,432 kilometres of Earth. Classified as both a Near-Earth Asteroid (NEA) and a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA), its orbit simulation highlights the importance of closely monitoring such celestial bodies. Asteroid 2024 MH1 Closest Earth Approach Date: NASA Warns ‘Potentially Hazardous’ Airplane-Size Space Rock Will Fly by Earth, Here's All You Need To Know About the Asteroid.

Is Asteroid 2012 OD1 Hazardous? 

Asteroid 2012 OD1 has been classified as a "potentially hazardous asteroid" by NASA due to its proximity to Earth. If this celestial body collides with Earth, it could cause severe damage to humankind. However, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) monitors the movements of these asteroids, and preventive actions are taken to prevent potential damage.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 26, 2024 11:57 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).