Astronomers are on the edge of their seats because an asteroid dubbed a “city killer” will pass between the Earth and the Moon this weekend. On 11 March, a space rock between 40 and 90 meters in diameter is scheduled to fly by Earth.
The asteroid designated 2023 DZ2 by astronomers was discovered a month ago. A huge asteroid so near to Earth is quite unusual, according to scientists. A distance of only 68,000 kilometers separates the rock and Earth.
The distance here is roughly equal to flying from London to Sydney and back twice. However, astronomers have told us that it poses no danger to human life.
According to European Space Agency planetary defense chief Richard Moissl, “there is little possibility of this ‘city killer’ striking Earth, but its close approach presents a tremendous opportunity for observations.”
Instead, the fly-by will provide scientists with a unique opportunity to further their understanding of asteroids. Binoculars or a small telescope can let amateur astronomers see the asteroid, too.
Those who are unable to see DZ2 in the sky can tune in to The Virtual Telescope Project’s live web broadcast of its approach. The object is expected to come close to Earth’s orbit again in 2026, but experts do not believe it poses a threat at that time either.
Assuming the asteroid’s track alters, which is highly improbable, humanity may breathe a sigh of relief. Images released earlier this month confirmed that Nasa’s crazy plan to deflect an asteroid last year as a test run to save civilization was successful.
You can also read some of the other stories we’ve written about meteors:
- How Chelyabinsk Meteor Impacted RMNB on its 10th Anniversary?
- Today Will See A Meteor Shower And Hunters Moon
DART was the first test of its kind, designed to deflect an asteroid away from Earth before it could cause catastrophic damage. Nasa now has a backup plan, although one that needs further development, in the event that an asteroid threatens to strike Earth and cause widespread destruction.
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