The asteroid officially designated 52768 (1998 OR2) is expected to cross Earth’s orbit this year.
Scientists stress that there is no real danger of impact, but they continue to monitor its trajectory closely.
In the extremely unlikely event that it were to collide with Earth, studies suggest that the consequences could be catastrophic, with the potential to cause massive destruction.
The asteroid’s size is impressive, with estimates ranging between 1.5 and 4 kilometers in diameter, making it one of the largest near-Earth objects observed in recent years.
NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies has been tracking 1998 OR2 carefully, using the latest telescopes and observational technology to predict its path.
Its approach in April has attracted significant attention from both the scientific community and space enthusiasts worldwide.
Meanwhile, a young 23-year-old student has made waves in astronomy by discovering 17 new planets, one of which shows remarkable similarities to Earth.
These discoveries highlight the growing potential for identifying habitable worlds and expanding our understanding of the universe.
While the asteroid poses no immediate threat, experts continue to use such observations to prepare for any future possibilities, however remote.
The combined efforts of space agencies and citizen scientists alike demonstrate humanity’s ongoing commitment to studying and protecting our planet from cosmic hazards.