While there is no asteroid identified as a "planet killer" expected to impact Earth in 2024, an asteroid designated 2024 ON, described as skyscraper-sized and "potentially hazardous," is notable for its close approach, though it will safely miss our planet.
Understanding "Planet Killer" vs. "Potentially Hazardous"
The term "planet killer" generally refers to asteroids or celestial bodies large enough to cause an extinction-level event on a global scale, leading to the collapse of ecosystems and making the planet uninhabitable for many species. These are typically many kilometers in diameter.
Asteroids like 2024 ON are classified as "potentially hazardous" due to their size and proximity to Earth's orbit, but this classification does not imply an imminent threat of impact, nor does it mean they are "planet killers." Instead, it flags them for continued monitoring by astronomers to refine their orbital paths and ensure they pose no future collision risk.
Asteroid 2024 ON: A Closer Look
Asteroid 2024 ON gained attention for its relatively close flyby of Earth. Here are the key details about this celestial object:
Key Characteristics of 2024 ON
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | 2024 ON |
| Size | Skyscraper-sized |
| Diameter | Estimated between 721 and 1,575 feet (220 to 480 meters) |
| Speed | 19,842 mph (31933 km/h) — approximately 26 times the speed of sound |
| Impact Risk | Will safely miss Earth |
| Classification | Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA) |
Why 2024 ON is Monitored
- Size: Its diameter, though not "planet killer" level, is substantial enough that an impact could cause significant regional devastation.
- Proximity: Its orbit brings it within a close enough range to Earth's trajectory that it warrants continuous observation.
Despite its classification as "potentially hazardous" and its impressive speed, calculations confirm that 2024 ON is not on a collision course with Earth and poses no immediate threat. It will continue its journey through space, safely passing by our planet.
Asteroid Tracking and Defense Efforts
Scientists globally, through organizations like NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) and other international collaborations, continuously monitor near-Earth objects (NEOs). This involves:
- Discovery and Tracking: Using powerful telescopes to find and track asteroids and comets that pass close to Earth.
- Orbital Prediction: Calculating precise orbital paths to determine if any object poses a future impact risk.
- Mitigation Planning: Developing strategies for asteroid deflection, although such measures are currently in the research and development phase and would only be considered for objects posing a genuine threat.
These efforts ensure that humanity has advanced warning and time to prepare should a truly hazardous asteroid be discovered on an impact trajectory.
