📷 Image Credits: Deccan Herald
A massive asteroid is on course to make a close approach to Earth next week. Known as 2024 MK, this asteroid is currently located in the constellation of Centaurus, approximately six million kilometers away from our planet. Despite the vast distance, 2024 MK is traveling at an impressive speed of 33,732 kmph. Next week, it is expected to have its closest encounter with Earth in 10 years. During this encounter, 2024 MK will pass by Earth at a distance of 296,119 km, which is closer than the Moon’s average distance from Earth. Currently, the asteroid is visible below the horizon from Greenwich, UK, through long-exposure photography. Its fly-by can first be observed in the southern hemisphere before appearing in the northern hemisphere during its closest approach.
Contrary to concerns, NASA has confirmed that there is no risk of 2024 MK colliding with Earth during this flyby. The likelihood of a direct impact is incredibly low, with only a 0.00000095 chance projected for its approach in 2116. It is essential to note that asteroid impacts are not considered potentially hazardous unless they come within 7.4 million km of Earth and are at least 460 feet in diameter. Larger asteroids can cause city-wide destruction, while an asteroid measuring around 650 feet could decimate an entire small country. In the worst-case scenario, an asteroid of approximately a kilometer in size could lead to global mass extinction and devastation.
The remarkable trajectory of 2024 MK will present astronomers and space enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to witness this cosmic event. While the asteroid poses no immediate threat to Earth, its proximity and size make it an exciting celestial event to observe. Stay tuned to HeadlineFly.com for the latest updates and insights on the upcoming close fly-by of the 2024 MK asteroid.
