A massive asteroid, known as 2020 XR, is set to make a close flyby of Earth on December 4, 2023, garnering attention due to its classification as a “potentially hazardous” object. The asteroid, which measures around 1,200 feet (366 meters) in diameter, is comparable in size to a football stadium and will pass by at a distance of approximately 1.37 million miles (2.2 million kilometers). This monumental event will occur at 0:27 ET, with the asteroid traveling at an impressive speed of roughly 27,500 miles per hour (44,300 kilometers per hour). Despite its potentially hazardous classification, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has confirmed that there is no risk of collision with Earth during this flyby.
For those interested in observing this rare celestial occurrence, the Virtual Telescope Project (VTP) will offer a free livestream of the event, starting at 13:30 ET on December 3. Additionally, amateur astronomers with telescopes as small as 8 inches (20 centimeters) will also have the opportunity to visually track the asteroid. The European Space Agency (ESA) has communicated that the livestream will allow viewers to witness this extraordinary flyby, enhancing public engagement with astronomy.
Asteroid 2020 XR is classified as a near-Earth object (NEO), which implies that its orbit brings it closer than 1.3 astronomical units (AU) – a measure of distance equal to the average distance from Earth to the Sun. Objects that approach within 4.65 million miles (7.5 million kilometers) of Earth and are larger than 500 feet (150 meters) are classified as potentially hazardous due to their size and proximity. Historically, 2020 XR was initially deemed a potential threat to Earth when it was discovered, particularly with speculations of an impact in 2028. However, advancements in tracking and data refinement have since reassured astronomers about its trajectory.
Understanding its past approaches, the asteroid last came close to Earth in December 1977, although it was not discovered until later. At that time, its distance from Earth was around 10 million miles (16 million kilometers) greater than the expected distance during the upcoming flyby. The measurements and proximity of 2020 XR highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and research into NEOs, as this flyby will not be replicated until 2196, making it a significant event for both scientists and space enthusiasts alike.
Future observations of 2020 XR indicate that its next approach will occur in November 2028, although much farther away at approximately 11.3 million miles (18.2 million kilometers). The asteroid’s trajectory illustrates the dynamic nature of celestial bodies and underscores the efforts of organizations such as NASA and ESA in tracking NEOs to prevent possible hazards while also providing opportunities for educational public outreach and awareness regarding space phenomena.
With the arrival of the close flyby of asteroid 2020 XR, there is both excitement and reassurance regarding its impact—or lack thereof—on Earth. As astronomers continue to analyze and refine the trajectories of NEAs, they enhance our understanding of potential threats while showcasing the awe-inspiring nature of our solar system. The real-time observations allow the public to engage with the cosmos, highlighting the importance of education and awareness in the ever-evolving field of space research.
