An asteroid the size of a pickup truck passed close to Earth on Tuesday, coming within 6,200 miles of the planet’s surface, NASA said.
The asteroid, designated 2023 BU, was discovered on Saturday by an amateur astronomer in Crimea. It was initially estimated to be about 15 feet in diameter, but NASA later revised that estimate to 11 feet.
Although 2023 BU came closer to Earth than any other asteroid in recent history, it posed no threat to the planet. The asteroid passed by at a speed of about 28,000 miles per hour, and it was not expected to come close to Earth again for at least another century.
NASA tracks asteroids and other near-Earth objects (NEOs) as part of its Planetary Defense Coordination Office. The office works to identify and track NEOs that could potentially pose a threat to Earth, and to develop plans to mitigate any such threats.
The discovery of 2023 BU highlights the importance of NASA’s work in tracking NEOs. By identifying and tracking NEOs, NASA can help to ensure that the Earth is safe from any potential asteroid impacts.
Be First to Comment