Christmas Eve Close Encounter: 120-Foot Asteroid To Fly Past Earth

Asteroid 2024 XN1 will zip past Earth at 4.48 million miles, underscoring the importance of planetary defence efforts.

December 20, 2024: Astronomers are closely monitoring asteroid 2024 XN1, a 120-foot space rock set to make a close approach to Earth on December 24. Traveling at an incredible speed of 14,743 miles per hour, the asteroid will pass safely at a distance of 4.48 million miles, equivalent to 16 times the distance between Earth and the Moon.

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While scientists classify this flyby as a “near miss” in astronomical terms, they assure that there is no danger to our planet. NASA has been tracking the asteroid using advanced technology to precisely chart its path, emphasising the importance of monitoring such objects for planetary defence.

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Asteroid 2024 XN1 is the largest of the next five asteroids expected to pass Earth in the near future. Measuring around 120 feet in diameter, it offers astronomers a valuable opportunity to study these celestial objects and their role in the early formation of our solar system.

NASA’s Asteroid Watch dashboard, which tracks asteroids and comets making relatively close approaches to Earth, has provided detailed information on 2024 XN1. The dashboard allows users to view each asteroid’s size, speed, and proximity to Earth, promoting transparency and public awareness about these cosmic events.

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A Reminder of Planetary Defence

While none of the upcoming asteroids, including 2024 XN1, pose any threat to Earth, this flyby underscores the ongoing need for robust planetary defence efforts. Tracking asteroids is crucial for understanding potential future risks and safeguarding Earth from rare but impactful collisions.

Asteroid 2024 XN1’s passage highlights both the capabilities of current technology and the importance of continuing to improve our understanding of near-Earth objects.

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Christmas asteroid, asteroid 2024 XN1, near-Earth asteroid, planetary defence, NASA asteroid watch, asteroid flyby, space news, cosmic events, asteroid tracking, Earth safety.