NASA has issued an alert regarding two massive asteroids are approaching the Earth today, that is, October 8. These space rocks are travelling at an astonishing speed and are being closely monitored by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). The two space rocks with enormous size and alarming velocity are approaching the Earth today, but should you be worried? These near-Earth objects offer scientists valuable opportunitues to study asteroids and their movements. NASA’s constant tracking allows them to observe and understand more about these ancient celestial bodies, contributing to ongoing space research. In this article, we’ll learn about the two asteroids, namely Asteroid 2024 SN8 and Asteroid 2016 JG38, approaching the Earth on October 8.

Asteroid 2024 SN8

Asteroid 2024 SN8 is 23 metres (75 feet) in diametre. The size of the asteroid is compared to that of an airplane. Asteroid 2024 SN8 is passing the Earth at a distance of 1,240,000 kilometres. Despite its high speed, the asteroid will pose no immediate threat to the Earth.

Asteroid 2016 JG38

Asteroid 2016 JG38 is larger than Asteroid 2024 SN8 and is 52 metres (170 feet) in diametre. Asteroid 2016 JG38 is compared to the size of an airplane. The asteroid is passing the Earth at a distance of 5,060,000 kilometres. Reportedly, Asteroid 2016 JG38 is not potentially dangerous.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) remains committed to monitoring these and other near-Earth objects, making sure that they do not pose any potential risks and are evaluated well ahead of time. The ongoing observations provide crucial insights into the solar system’s history, enabling scientists to analyse the composition and pahs of ancient space rocks.

Vigilant monitoring gives us a better understanding of our solar system. Though the approaches of two asteroids—Asteroid 2024 SN8 and Asteroid 2016 JG38—might sound frightening, they are not potentially hazardous.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 08, 2024 06:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).