NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is closely observing three asteroids that will come near Earth today, October 9. Although these space rocks do not pose any danger, their close approaches present unique chances for scientific research. The asteroids—2018 QE, 2024 TD3, and 2024 TK3—are part of NASA's ongoing mission to track and study near-Earth objects.
Asteroid 2018 QE: The Bus-Sized Visitor
The first asteroid, known as 2018 QE, is about the size of a bus, measuring around 32 feet wide. It will pass by Earth at a distance of approximately 415,000 kilometers, which is further away than the Moon. This encounter offers scientists a fantastic opportunity to study smaller celestial objects up close.
Asteroid 2024 TD3: The Airplane-Sized Rock
The second asteroid, called 2024 TD3, is much larger at 99 feet wide. It will safely fly past Earth at a distance of about 2,320,000 kilometers. Researchers are eager to collect important observational data during this flyby, which will improve our understanding of larger space objects.
Asteroid 2024 TK3: The House-Sized Object
The third asteroid, 2024 TK3, is about 57 feet across, roughly the size of a house. It will pass by Earth at a safe distance of around 2,350,000 kilometers. Scientists plan to carefully observe its features during this approach, which will add to the existing knowledge about asteroids.
NASA's ongoing monitoring of these asteroids is crucial for maintaining Earth's safety. The information gathered from their close encounters will help researchers learn more about the movement and makeup of these celestial bodies. JPL remains committed to protecting our planet while broadening our understanding of the universe.
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