Live: Asteroid the Size of Jet Flies Past Earth Within Moon’s Orbit on Sept 3

Fast Summary:

• Asteroid 2025 QD8, approximately the size of a commercial jet, will pass within one lunar distance from Earth on September 3.
• Close approach is expected at 135,465 miles (218,009 kilometers) from Earth at 10:57 a.m. ET (1456 GMT).
• The asteroid measures between 55 to 124 feet in diameter and poses no risk to Earth or the Moon.
• It will travel at over 28,000 mph (45,000 km/h) relative to Earth during its flyby.
• Images captured by the Virtual Telescope Project on August 30 show it as a small dot amidst distant stars.
• The Virtual telescope project will host a live YouTube stream of the asteroid’s flyby on September 3 at 7 p.m. ET (23:00 GMT), showcasing views from robotic telescopes in Manciano, Italy.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The passage of asteroid 2025 QD8 near Earth’s orbit highlights ongoing advancements in space observation and research aimed at mitigating risks posed by near-Earth objects.Such events demonstrate global scientific collaboration, as evidenced by imaging efforts like those by the Italian-based Virtual Telescope Project. While NASA has reassured that no hazardous asteroids are expected to impact Earth for another century, regular monitoring adds value not only for planetary defence but also fosters curiosity-driven exploration beyond our planet.

From an Indian perspective-where space programs like ISRO continue expanding into areas such as satellite launches and lunar missions-the rising focus on tracking celestial objects emphasizes broader involvement with international entities working towards securing Earth’s safety. this could open avenues for India’s deep-space research initiatives and widen its scope within global scientific dialogues.

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