A massive asteroid, designated 2014 TN17, is set to make a remarkably close approach to Earth tomorrow, NASA has revealed. Measuring approximately 540 feet in diameter—taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza and nearly twice the height of India’s iconic Taj Mahal—the space rock will travel at an astonishing speed of over 48,000 miles per hour.
Close Approach After a Century
According to NASA’s calculations, the asteroid will pass within 0.03404 astronomical units (AU) of Earth, equating to about 3 million miles. While this may seem like a vast distance, in astronomical terms, it marks the closest 2014 TN17 has come to our planet in over 100 years. The event is expected to occur at 11:34 GMT on Wednesday.
Classified as ‘Potentially Hazardous’ but No Threat to Earth
Despite its classification as a ‘potentially hazardous asteroid’ (PHA) due to its size and trajectory, NASA assures that 2014 TN17 poses no risk of impact. The space agency continuously monitors such objects to assess any potential future threats.
An artist’s impression released by NASA suggests that the asteroid could pass even closer than initially estimated, at a distance of around 140,000 miles—closer than the Moon. However, current projections still indicate that the asteroid will safely bypass Earth without incident.
Speed and Impact Comparisons
Travelling at a velocity of approximately 48,000 miles per hour, 2014 TN17 is moving at nearly 60 times the speed of sound. If an asteroid of this magnitude were to collide with Earth, it could cause significant regional devastation. However, NASA’s monitoring systems ensure that no such risk exists at this time.
Ongoing Monitoring and Future Encounters
The passage of 2014 TN17 is a reminder of the vast number of near-Earth objects (NEOs) that scientists track daily. NASA and other space agencies worldwide continue to refine planetary defense strategies, ensuring preparedness for any potential threats in the future.
For now, skywatchers and astronomers will be keenly observing this close flyby, as such events provide valuable opportunities for studying the composition and behavior of asteroids in our solar system. Future updates and findings on 2014 TN17 will be shared as scientists analyze its trajectory and potential future approaches to Earth.
