SpaceX recently issued a warning about two asteroids that will approach Earth.
This information has generated great interest among scientists and astronomy enthusiasts, while also raising concerns among the general public, and not without reason.
According to the official statement from SpaceX, the two asteroids are named 2024 TE and 2024 SD3. The first asteroid is about the size of a bus and will approach Earth at a distance of approximately 1.3 million kilometers.
The second asteroid, with dimensions similar to that of an airplane, will pass at a distance of around 1.49 million kilometers from Earth.
Do These Asteroids Pose a Threat to Earth?
Whenever warnings like these are issued, both experts and citizens naturally worry about the possibility of an asteroid impact.
However, thanks to constant monitoring by space agencies, these situations are well under control. In fact, planetary defense missions have already been launched to protect Earth from any potential asteroid threats.
Regarding the risk of impact from the mentioned asteroids, it’s important to note that the average distance between the Earth and the Moon is around 385,000 kilometers.
Both asteroids will pass at more than twice that distance, meaning there is no danger of impact, as their trajectories are far from Earth.
SpaceX continues to use its Asteroid Watch system, which allows them to track objects near Earth and provide detailed information about their approach date, estimated size, and proximity to Earth.
Monitoring and Identifying Potentially Hazardous Objects
This system helps SpaceX identify potentially hazardous objects, typically those that are larger than 150 meters or come within 7.5 million kilometers of Earth.
Since 2024 TE and 2024 SD3 are far from Earth, they pose no threat to the planet or life on it.
Additionally, not every celestial body that approaches Earth is harmful or poses a risk. For example, the 2024 PT5 asteroid is currently orbiting Earth and has become a temporary second satellite for at least two months.
Due to its small size, 2024 PT5 has no impact on Earth’s balance, showing that not all asteroids near Earth’s orbit are dangerous.
SpaceX, along with other scientific organizations, actively monitors any celestial objects that may pose a threat. Therefore, when warnings like these arise, it is essential to remain calm, as these events are not dangerous.
