A large asteroid, roughly the size of a stadium, is set to pass by Earth on October 18. Named 2024 RV50, the asteroid is about 710 feet wide and will safely pass at a distance of 4.6 million miles, posing no immediate threat to our planet, according to NASA.
Asteroids, often called minor planets, are rocky remnants from the solar system’s formation 4.6 billion years ago. Unlike planets, they lack atmospheres and vary in size and composition, with many remaining unchanged since their creation.
NASA’s Role in Asteroid Tracking
NASA continuously monitors asteroids using advanced observational tools to predict any potential threats to Earth. Historical events, such as the Chicxulub asteroid impact that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs, highlight the importance of this work.
NASA and other space agencies actively track potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs). While 2024 RV50 poses no immediate danger, its close approach provides valuable data for refining prediction models. Understanding asteroids is essential for protecting Earth from future impacts.
