NASA warns 100-foot-tall asteroid will pass ‘extremely close’ to Earth at 29,000 mph |

NASA has issued a warning about a 100-foot asteroid called 2024 NB2which will pass extremely close to Earth on July 13, 2024. This asteroid, about the size of an airplane, will be traveling at an astonishing speed speed of 47,921 kilometers per hour. Despite its proximity, experts assure that it poses no direct threat to our planet.
Asteroid 2024 NB2 was discovered by astronomers at the Catalina Sky Survey in Tucson, Arizona. The near-Earth object is being closely monitored by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California. The asteroid’s closest approach will bring it within 2,390,000 miles (3,850,000 kilometers) of Earth, a distance that, while close in astronomical terms, is still safe.
The Goldstone Solar System Radar, part of NASA’s Deep Space Network, has been instrumental in tracking 2024 NB2. This radar system, located near Barstow, California, has provided detailed observations of the asteroid’s size, orbit, and velocity. These observations are crucial to understanding the asteroid’s behavior. objects close to earth and improving planetary defense strategies.

The approach of asteroid 2024 NB2 is a reminder of the importance of monitoring space for potential threats. NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) plays a key role in detecting and tracking such objects. The PDCO works with observatories and space agencies worldwide to ensure that potential threats are identified and assessed well in advance.
The discovery and tracking of 2024 NB2 highlights advances in asteroid detection technology. The NASA-funded Catalina Sky Survey has made a significant contribution to this effort. Since its inception, the survey has discovered thousands of near-Earth objects, providing valuable data for scientists and researchers.
The speed at which 2024 NB2 is traveling is evidence of the dynamic nature of our solar system. Objects like this asteroid are constantly moving through space, influenced by the gravity of planets and other celestial bodies. Understanding these movements helps scientists predict future trajectories and assess potential risks.
Although NB2 from 2024 poses no immediate threat, approach close serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance. NASA and other space agencies are continually working to improve our ability to detect and track near-Earth objects. This ongoing effort is essential to protect our planet from potential impacts.
The upcoming flyby of 2024 NB2 is an opportunity for scientists to gather more data about objects that are close to Earth. By studying the asteroid’s composition, size, and velocity, researchers can gain insight into the characteristics of similar objects. This information is vital for developing effective strategies to mitigate potential threats.