A massive asteroid — roughly as tall as the Eiffel Tower — will safely zoom past Earth this Friday, May 24, offering a striking reminder of the constant activity in our solar system.
🪨 About the Asteroid:
- Name: 387746 (2003 MH4)
- Size: Approximately 335 meters wide (1,100 feet) — comparable to a 100-storey skyscraper
- Speed: Traveling at a staggering 30,060 km/h (18,680 mph)
- Flyby Time: 4:07 PM IST (10:37 UTC)
📍 Origin & Path:
387746 belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids — a category known for orbits that intersect Earth’s path. These space rocks are monitored carefully due to their potential to come close to our planet.
Though 2003 MH4 will not collide with Earth, its proximity — on an astronomical scale — is enough to capture the attention of scientists and sky-watchers alike. The asteroid’s flyby is being tracked by space agencies around the world to refine orbital models and prepare for future near-Earth objects.
🌌 Why It Matters:
While this encounter poses no threat, it serves as a reminder of Earth’s vulnerability in a dynamic cosmos. Events like this help improve early-warning systems and deepen our understanding of the space environment that surrounds us.
So, while your evening may feel calm, remember: the universe is always moving — and sometimes, very close by.
