On February 2nd, 2024, skywatchers will have the opportunity to observe a close encounter between Earth and the asteroid 2008 OS7. While classified as “potentially hazardous,” this asteroid poses no threat to our planet during this flyby.
Details of the Flyby:
- Date: February 2nd, 2024
- Closest Approach: Approximately 2.8 million kilometers (1.7 million miles), which is about 7.4 times the average distance between Earth and the Moon.
- Size: Estimated diameter between 210 and 480 meters (690 and 1,575 feet).
- Speed: Traveling at approximately 21,000 kilometers per hour (13,000 miles per hour).
- Discovery: Discovered in 2008 and designated as 2008 OS7.
- Next Encounter: Will return in 2032, but at a much safer distance of 45 million miles (72 million kilometers).
Safety Assured:
NASA and other space agencies have extensively tracked 2008 OS7’s orbit and confirmed that it will safely pass Earth without any risk of impact.
Observation Opportunities:
While not visible to the naked eye, the asteroid may be observable with telescopes by experienced skywatchers.
Additional Information:
This information is based on data from NASA/JPL and is for informational purposes only.
