Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Muskan Arora
An asteroid named 2024 BR4 is set to pass close to Earth on Valentine's Day, measuring between 140 and 310 meters in diameter, similar to the size of a skyscraper.
Discovered by the Catalina Sky Survey on January 30, this fast-moving asteroid belongs to the Apollo group, with orbits extending beyond Earth's and intersecting with our planet's path.
The asteroid will approach within 4.6 million kilometers of Earth, less than twelve times the distance to the Moon, offering a remarkable sight for observers.
A recent 120-second long exposure image, captured using the Celestron robotic unit of the Virtual Telescope Project, provided a glimpse of the approaching asteroid as it steadily closes in on Earth.
At the time of imaging, 2024 BR4 was approximately 12 million kilometers away from Earth, showcasing the capabilities of international collaborations in astronomical observation.
Experts reassure the public that there is no cause for alarm as the asteroid approaches its closest point, with NASA tracking over 33,000 near-Earth objects and stating minimal risk of significant impact on our planet.
NASA's vigilant tracking of near-Earth objects ensures continuous monitoring and assessment of potential threats, providing valuable information for planetary defence efforts.
Measuring between 140 and 310 meters in diameter, 2024 BR4 will pass within 4.6 million kilometers of Earth, offering a unique opportunity for scientific observation.
Collaborative efforts such as the Virtual Telescope Project demonstrate the power of international cooperation in advancing astronomical research and understanding celestial phenomena.