NASA tracks 5 Asteroids coming towards Earth; How close are they?

In the realm of celestial bodies, the Earth is no stranger to encounters with asteroids, both large and small.

These flybys, though not posing any immediate threat, provide astronomers and space enthusiasts with an exciting opportunity to observe these cosmic visitors up close.

August 17, 2023: Asteroid 2023 PZ

Size: Approximately 18 feet
Closest Earth Approach: 325,000 miles

Kicking off the series is the asteroid with the designation 2023 PZ. Measuring around 18 feet in size, this car-sized space rock is expected to come closest to Earth on August 17th, 2023.

While its passage will still be a significant distance away at 325,000 miles, this encounter serves as a reminder of the constant cosmic dance occurring around our planet.

August 17, 2023: Asteroid 2022 CP1

Size: Approximately 38 feet
Closest Earth Approach: 3,270,000 miles

Simultaneously, on the same day, the asteroid 2022 CP1 is set to cruise by. With an approximate size of 38 feet, this bus-sized asteroid will maintain a safe distance of about 3,270,000 miles from Earth.

This cosmic double-header showcases the diversity in sizes among these space travellers.

August 18, 2023: Asteroid 2023 PD1

Size: Approximately 95 feet
Closest Earth Approach: 3,650,000 miles

On August 18th, attention will shift to asteroid 2023 PD1, which boasts a larger size, roughly akin to that of an aeroplane.

This space rock, measuring around 95 feet, will come within a distant proximity of 3,650,000 miles. Despite its significant size, there's no need for concern as it safely continues its cosmic journey.

August 19, 2023: Asteroid 2011 QJ21

Size: Approximately 140 feet
Closest Earth Approach: 3,080,000 miles

A day later, an asteroid 2011 QJ21 takes centre stage. With dimensions resembling that of a sizable aeroplane at around 140 feet, this asteroid will pass by Earth at a distance of 3,080,000 miles.

This astronomical event serves as a captivating reminder of the dynamic interactions occurring in our solar system.

August 21, 2023: Asteroid 2023 PM1

Size: Approximately 220 feet
Closest Earth Approach: 1,940,000 miles

Concluding this series is the asteroid 2023 PM1. With dimensions comparable to a large aeroplane at approximately 220 feet, this space rock's closest approach will be at a distance of 1,940,000 miles on August 21st, 2023.

Although this event will be relatively distant, it underscores the fascinating interplay between Earth and the objects that journey through our cosmic neighbourhood.

While these upcoming encounters pose no imminent danger, they offer valuable opportunities for astronomers and enthusiasts to study and appreciate the wonders of our universe.

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