CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — On Friday, an asteroid the size of a skyscraper will make a close approach to Earth, passing within 1.7 million miles of our planet. Despite its proximity, there is no need for concern as it will pass by at a distance seven times farther than the Earth’s distance to the moon.
According to NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies, the asteroid is estimated to be between 690 feet and 1,575 feet across. For reference, this means it could be comparable in size to famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building in New York City or the Willis Tower in Chicago.
First spotted in 2008, the asteroid is known as 2008 OS7 and is not expected to return to our vicinity until 2032. However, its next visit will be significantly more distant, staying 45 million miles away.
This encounter is one of several expected this week. On Friday, three smaller asteroids, no more than a few tens of yards across, are also set to pass by harmlessly, with an additional two expected on Saturday. Then on Sunday, an asteroid about half the size of 2008 OS7 will swing by at a distance of 4.5 million miles.
The harmless nature of these close encounters offers scientists and astronomers an opportunity to study and observe these celestial bodies as they pass by, contributing to a better understanding of asteroids and their behavior. The event also presents a chance for the public to learn more about these natural phenomena that occasionally intersect with Earth’s orbit.