Latest news with #S.Somanath
Time of India
05-08-2025
- Science
- Time of India
NASA monitors asteroid 2025 OT7 as it approaches Earth on August 5: Size, speed and flyby distance revealed
Earth is frequently visited by objects from deep space, ranging from tiny meteorites to massive asteroids that capture global attention. One such celestial traveler, asteroid 2025 OT7, is now at the center of interest as it prepares for a close approach to Earth on August 5, 2025. Its remarkable size, high velocity, and unique orbital path have made it a key subject for astronomers and sky watchers worldwide. Events like these emphasise the importance of continuously tracking near-Earth objects (NEOs) to understand their behaviour better, refine monitoring technology, and strengthen planetary defense strategies . The upcoming flyby of asteroid 2025 OT7 serves as a reminder of how dynamic our solar system truly is and why vigilance in space observation is essential. NASA tracks 170 feet asteroid 2025 OT7 to close flyby on August 5: Speed and distance Asteroid 2025 OT7 is estimated to be about 170 feet (52 meters) wide, roughly comparable to the height of a 16-story building. It is traveling at an impressive speed of 48,431 miles per hour (77,955 km/h), covering vast distances in space within seconds. During its closest approach, the asteroid will pass at a distance of 2.7 million miles (4.3 million kilometers) from Earth. Although this may seem like an extremely safe distance, astronomers categorise such flybys as relatively close because OT7 belongs to the Aten group of asteroids, which often cross Earth's orbital path. These types of asteroids are constantly monitored due to their dynamic orbits and potential to shift over time. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 20 Things You Should Stop Wearing After 40 Undo NASA has strict criteria for classifying an asteroid as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA). For an object to fall under this category, it must have a diameter of more than 85 meters (279 feet) and pass within 7.4 million kilometers (4.6 million miles) of Earth. While asteroid 2025 OT7 is passing within the monitoring zone, it does not meet the size threshold. This means there is no immediate danger and its orbit is well understood, with no risk of collision during this flyby. Importance of monitoring space rocks Even when an asteroid does not pose a direct threat, it remains crucial to track and study its movement. Small gravitational shifts or interactions with other celestial bodies could potentially alter an asteroid's trajectory over time. That is why space agencies like NASA, ESA, JAXA, and ISRO keep a constant watch on near-Earth objects like 2025 OT7. India, under the guidance of ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, has shown keen interest in asteroid research and exploration. Plans are already in motion to study larger asteroids such as Apophis, which will pass extremely close to Earth in 2029. ISRO also aims to collaborate internationally on future asteroid landing missions, further enhancing planetary defense efforts. What makes asteroid 2025 OT7 significant The flyby of asteroid 2025 OT7 is significant, not because of danger, but because it serves as a reminder of the constant activity within our solar system. Close approaches like this demonstrate Earth's vulnerability to celestial events and reinforce why global monitoring systems are so important. They also present opportunities to test and refine advanced tracking technologies and engage the public in space science. For astronomers and researchers, this flyby offers valuable observational data that can be used to improve our understanding of asteroid compositions, movements, and long-term trajectories. For the general public, it sparks interest in space exploration and emphasizes the need for planetary defense strategies. Planetary defense progress with NASA DART and global missions In recent years, planetary defense has moved from science fiction to reality. NASA's DART mission, which successfully altered the orbit of asteroid Dimorphos in 2022, proved that humans have the capability to influence the path of small celestial bodies. This breakthrough has inspired similar efforts worldwide. The European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing its Hera mission to further study the effects of DART's impact, while ISRO and other agencies are exploring their own asteroid observation and mitigation programs. Together, these efforts create a global network designed to ensure early detection and potential deflection of hazardous space objects. Also Read | NASA astronaut recalls awe-inspiring view of Mumbai and Delhi's night lights from space: 'India looks magical'
Time of India
05-08-2025
- Science
- Time of India
NASA says a 170-foot airplane sized asteroid will zoom past Earth on August 5; does it pose any risk? Let's find out
Space tracking agencies and planetary scientists are always scanning the skies for close encounters of cosmic bodies with Earth, even when there's no immediate danger. These flybys of asteroids that pass millions of miles away, remind us of how dynamic, and unpredictable our cosmic neighborhood can be. Monitoring these near-Earth objects (NEOs) helps scientists keep up with their orbital data, test detection systems, and prepare for any unexpected shifts in trajectory, as each close approach is treated as important practice for planetary defense. Even asteroids that pose no threat now, simply by flying within a few million miles, are studied carefully. Recent reports suggest an object named 2025 OT7 is set to make a close approach on 5 August 2025, measuring approximately 170 feet, traveling around 77942 kmh, and passing at about 43,45,228 km from Earth. The asteroid is identified as belonging to the Aten group, whose orbits often cross Earth's path. Experts have suggested that this flyby poses no danger, since NASA only considers an asteroid potentially hazardous if it passes within 7.4 million km and exceeds 85 meters in diameter. Why do scientists keep a close watch on asteroids? Even safe flybys serve as critical rehearsal for planetary defense. Small changes in an asteroid's orbit, due to gravity or non-gravitational forces like the Yarkovsky effect, can alter future paths. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like TV providers are furious: this gadget gives you access to all channels Techno Mag Learn More Undo Continuous tracking ensures any deviation is detected early. NASA's criteria for flagging objects include size and proximity of near space objects. India is also preparing for future asteroid-based missions India's space agency ISRO is also gearing up for future asteroid-focused missions. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has discussed plans to study larger objects such as Apophis, which will pass near Earth in April 2029, and ambitions to land on asteroids through international collaboration with NASA, ESA, and JAXA. Can OT7 cause potential harm While asteroid 2025 OT7 isn't dangerous, it's still a reminder of how unpredictable space can be. Even when everything seems calm, things can change in an instant. That's why scientists closely monitor objects like this, it helps us stay ready for anything.
Time of India
28-07-2025
- Science
- Time of India
NASA alert! Asteroid 2025 OL1 set for close Earth encounter on July 30 at 16,900 mph; scientists track rare near-Earth flyby
Earth is about to witness a close celestial visitor as asteroid 2025 OL1 approaches our planet. Roughly the size of a small aircraft, measuring about 110 feet in diameter, this space rock will make its closest pass on July 30, 2025. Travelling at an impressive speed of 16,904 miles per hour, it will safely skim past Earth at a distance of approximately 1.29 million kilometres. Though this event may sound alarming, NASA assures that the asteroid poses no threat. This flyby underscores the critical need for continuous monitoring of near-Earth objects and the evolving strategies by agencies like NASA and ISRO to defend our planet. NASA tracks asteroid 2025 OL1 for closest pass on July 30: Speed and distance At roughly 110 feet in diameter, asteroid 2025 OL1 is about the length of a small passenger plane. Moving at a rapid speed of nearly 17,000 miles per hour, it covers the vast distance between Earth and its orbit quickly but safely. Although over a million kilometres away at closest approach, this flyby is significant because it offers scientists a chance to study an asteroid up close, better understand its trajectory, and refine detection techniques for future near-Earth objects. NASA confirms asteroid 2025 OL1 flyby poses no threat to Earth by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: Unsold Sofas at Bargain Prices (Prices May Surprise You) Sofas | Search Ads Search Now Undo NASA's latest observations confirm that asteroid 2025 OL1 will not come close enough to endanger Earth. To be classified as potentially hazardous, an asteroid must pass within 7.4 million kilometres of our planet and be at least 85 metres wide. While 2025 OL1 meets the size criterion, its closest approach of 1.29 million kilometres keeps it well outside the danger zone. Despite its harmless status, scientists remain vigilant, closely tracking the asteroid's path for any changes caused by gravitational forces or other influences. This careful observation helps maintain our preparedness against any unexpected shifts. ISRO joins global efforts in asteroid monitoring and defence India's space agency, ISRO, remains deeply involved in planetary defense initiatives. Chairman S. Somanath has emphasized the importance of preparing for asteroid threats, particularly focusing on larger objects like the asteroid Apophis, which is expected to pass Earth in 2029. ISRO aims to collaborate with other space agencies such as NASA, ESA, and JAXA to improve detection capabilities and develop technologies capable of deflecting potentially hazardous asteroids. These partnerships and upcoming missions underscore the growing global commitment to protecting Earth from cosmic dangers. Why monitoring asteroids like 2025 OL1 matters Although asteroid impacts are rare, their potential consequences can be devastating. Events like the flyby of 2025 OL1 serve as reminders of the importance of continued vigilance. Space is filled with countless near-Earth objects (NEOs) that silently traverse the solar system. Most pass by unnoticed, but tracking those that come close enables scientists to predict their paths and prepare contingency plans. The data gathered from each observation enhances our ability to forecast future encounters and develop asteroid mitigation strategies, safeguarding our planet's future. Asteroid 2025 OL1 flyby reinforces need for vigilant sky monitoring While the asteroid 2025 OL1's passage on July 30 will be peaceful and pose no danger, it highlights the need for ongoing surveillance. Global space agencies maintain round-the-clock monitoring systems, using powerful telescopes and satellites to watch the skies. Each asteroid flyby improves our understanding of these celestial neighbors and informs defense tactics. As technology advances, missions designed to test asteroid deflection methods may one day protect Earth from potential threats. Until then, experts keep watch, reminding us to look up with curiosity—and caution. Also Read | Twin meteor showers to light up July 29–30 skies with 25 shooting stars an hour; here's what you need to know
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Science
- Time of India
NASA alert! 95-foot asteroid 2025 ME92 to fly past Earth on July 31 at 11,000 mph; should we be worried
Source: Live Science A massive asteroid is heading towards Earth, but there's no need to panic—at least not yet. Measuring roughly 95 feet wide, asteroid 2025 ME92 is expected to make its closest approach on July 31, passing by our planet at a safe distance of 3.19 million kilometers. While the asteroid poses no immediate threat, its approach has caught the attention of global space agencies, including NASA and ISRO. Belonging to the Aten group, known for Earth-crossing orbits, ME92's flyby serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present risks in space and the critical importance of planetary defense strategies. Asteroid 2025 ME92 to zoom past Earth on July 31: Distance and speed According to NASA, asteroid 2025 ME92 will zoom past Earth at a staggering speed of 11,831 miles per hour. Though it will maintain a safe distance of 3.19 million kilometers, that proximity is considered relatively close by astronomical standards. This asteroid is classified within the Aten group, a family of near-Earth objects (NEOs) whose orbits often intersect with Earth's. While ME92 does not currently meet NASA's criteria for a potentially hazardous asteroid—which requires the object to be larger than 85 meters and closer than 7.4 million kilometers—it is still under close observation due to the unpredictability of orbital shifts. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Why scientists continue monitoring "safe" asteroids Although 2025 ME92 doesn't qualify as a dangerous object, scientists are not letting their guard down. Even small gravitational tugs or solar radiation pressure can alter an asteroid's trajectory over time. These changes, though subtle, could eventually lead to a collision risk in the future. NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) continues to maintain an active watchlist of asteroids, using both ground-based and space-based telescopes to refine orbital predictions and simulate impact scenarios—just in case. For now, asteroid 2025 ME92 will pass by Earth without incident, serving as yet another reminder that space is not as distant or silent as it appears. With hundreds of thousands of asteroids and near-Earth objects moving through our cosmic neighborhood, the need for international cooperation and continuous tracking grows more urgent by the day. The flyby of ME92 may be harmless, but it reinforces a universal truth: planetary defense is no longer optional—it's essential. ISRO's role in planetary defense India's ISRO is also keeping a close eye on near-Earth objects. Chairman S. Somanath has recently spoken about the agency's long-term interest in asteroid impact prevention, citing the example of Apophis, a larger asteroid that will make an exceptionally close approach in 2029. ISRO aims to collaborate with international partners like NASA, ESA, and JAXA to enhance its planetary defense capabilities. Plans include launching asteroid landing missions to better understand the composition and dynamics of these celestial bodies—critical data that can help devise deflection techniques in case of a real threat. Also Read | Solar Eclipse August 2 will bring 6 minutes of total darkness; Check, date, time, and visibility areas for a once-in-100-years phenomenon
Economic Times
16-07-2025
- Science
- Economic Times
NASA alert: 10-storey tall asteroid to fly past earth tomorrow at 22,500 km/h. Size, distance & more
Synopsis An asteroid named 2022 YS5 will pass close to Earth tomorrow. The asteroid is about 120 feet in diameter. It will travel at a speed of 22,500 km/h. NASA and ISRO confirm that it is not a threat. ISRO is preparing for future asteroid threats like Apophis in 2029. Continuous monitoring of Near-Earth Objects is critical for planetary defense. Agencies Representative Image A massive asteroid roughly the size of a building is set to make a close approach to Earth tomorrow, July 17. Named Asteroid 2022 YS5, the space rock will zoom past at a staggering speed of 22,500 km/h, but both NASA and ISRO have confirmed that it poses no threat to our to NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), 2022 YS5 is about 120 feet (36.5 meters) in diameter—comparable to a 10-storey building. While its size may raise eyebrows, it's not large enough to be classified as 'potentially hazardous.' The asteroid will pass Earth at a distance of 4.15 million kilometers (about 2.58 million miles). Although this may sound far, it's considered relatively close in cosmic terms—especially at its speed of over 22,500 km/ classifies an asteroid as "potentially hazardous" only if it's larger than 85 meters in diameter, andpasses within 7.4 million kilometers of Earth. Since 2022 YS5 falls short on both criteria, it will be closely monitored but not considered dangerous. According to reports ISRO will be studying the 2022 YS5 in preparation for asteroid Apophis, which will make a very close approach in 2029. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has emphasized the need for early detection, advanced monitoring, and possible deflection strategies. Collaborative efforts with NASA, ESA, and JAXA are already underway to develop missions that could land on asteroids, analyze them, and test ways to alter their trajectories. While 2022 YS5 is harmless, many experts caution that even smaller asteroids, like 2022 YS5, can change course over time due to factors like gravitational pulls or solar radiation. Continuous monitoring of Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) is critical to identify potential risks early and respond accordingly.
