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Two big asteroids are coming close to Earth as they move ahead in their orbits around the Sun. The two asteroids are predicted to be between 500 to 850 meters in diameter.
Asteroids are rocky objects that orbit the Sun and are remnants from the early solar system formation and can vary in size from small boulders to massive bodies several hundred kilometers in diameter.
The two asteroids coming close to Earth have been dubbed 488453 (1994 XD) and 2020 DB5. While 488453 (1994 XD will come close to Earth on June 12, the 2020 DB5 is expected to rendezvous with Earth on June 15. Both asteroids have been classified as potentially hazardous asteroids as their diameters are larger than 150 meters.
Asteroid 488453 (1994 XD)
Asteroid 488453 (1994 XD) will have a close approach to Earth on Monday and is expected to move past at a staggering speed of 77,292 kilometers per hour. The asteroid, during its close approach, will come as close as 31,62,498 kilometers to Earth.
The asteroid last visited Earth over a decade ago on November 27, 2012, and as it moves around in its orbit, it will next return to Earth seven years later in 2030.
Asteroid (2020 DB5)
Asteroid (2020 DB5) will fly close to Earth on June 15 coming nearly 43,08,418 kilometers to the planet. The asteroid is moving at a speed of 34,272 kilometers per hour and last visited Earth in 1995.
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, which is tracking the asteroid has predicted that after the close approach on June 15, the asteroid will not visit Earth until 1048. Its next visit to Earth will happen on May 2, 2048 bringing it nearly 5,32,67,313 kilometers to the planet.
Once an asteroid’s orbit is determined, scientists use sophisticated mathematical models and orbital calculations to predict its future trajectory. These predictions help identify potential close approaches and possible impacts with Earth.
While the vast majority of known asteroids pose no immediate threat, tracking them is crucial to identify any potential hazards and assess the need for mitigation strategies in the future.(Agencies)
