NASA has issued an alert regarding a massive asteroid, 2024 ON, approaching the Earth at a high speed. The asteroid measures 720 feet in diameter, which is equivalent to the size of more than two cricket pitches. This giant asteroid is set to pass by the Earth on September 15, 2024. It will remain at a safe distance of approximately 620,000 miles (9.97 million kilometres) from Earth, about 2.6 times the distance to the Moon. However, its proximity and speed have drawn significant attention from astronomers. Asteroids and Comets: What's the Difference?

The asteroid was first detected by NASA’s Near-Earth Object Observations Program, is travelling at a speed of 25,000 mph and considered as 'potentially hazardous' space rock. The 2024 ON asteroid has been closely monitored by experts at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. Advance radar and optical telescopes are being used to study the object. Scientists are concentrating on the asteroid’s size, shape, and composition to find out if any risks are associated with its approach to the Earth and explore potential defence strategies.

Although the asteroid is huge and travels at high speed, the possibility of 2024 ON impacting the Earth remains low. NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) emphasises the importance of vigilance when monitoring near-Earth objects. PDOC plays an important role in planetary defence, working to identify and track asteroids and develop techniques to deflect or eliminate any potential threats.

Global Collaboration in Space Defence

NASA has joined hands with the European Space Agency (ESA) to study the composition of the 2024 ON asteroid. Understanding the materials that these asteroids are composed of is essential, and this knowledge provides valuable insight into the formation of our solar system. The collaboration states the global importance of planetary defence and space exploration.

As the date approaches, scientists and researchers will continue to gather data that will help us understand the universe and the dynamic forces at play. The study of such asteroids offers crucial clues into the history of our solar system, shaped over billions of years ago.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 13, 2024 09:11 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).