NASA recently captured footage of two near-Earth asteroids passing by our planet, providing valuable insights into these celestial objects. The Goldstone Solar System Radar, part of NASA’s Deep Space Network, observed the asteroids 2024 MK and 2011 UL21 as they made their closest approaches to Earth. The radar system, located in California, has been instrumental in studying asteroids and other objects within our solar system for the past three decades.
The first asteroid, 2011 UL21, was tracked as it passed by Earth at a distance of 4.1 million miles. This mile-wide asteroid is classified as potentially hazardous due to its size, but calculations show that it poses no immediate threat. The radar observations revealed that the asteroid is a binary system, with its own moon orbiting around it.
Just two days later, asteroid 2024 MK made its closest approach to Earth, coming within 184,000 miles of our planet. This 500-foot-wide asteroid was first identified on June 16 and its orbit was altered by Earth’s gravity during the flyby. The radar observations of 2024 MK provided detailed images of the asteroid’s surface, showing concavities, ridges, and boulders.
While both asteroids are classified as potentially hazardous, scientists assure that they do not pose a threat to Earth in the near future. These close approaches provide valuable opportunities to study the physical properties of near-Earth asteroids and gather important data for planetary defense.
The radar system at Goldstone has been crucial in tracking and studying asteroids, as well as supporting various space exploration missions. From tracking objects within our solar system to assisting missions to other planets like Mars and Saturn, the radar system has played a vital role in advancing our understanding of the cosmos.
Overall, the recent observations of these two asteroids by NASA’s radar system have provided valuable insights into the composition, orbits, and physical characteristics of these celestial objects. The data collected will not only help in planetary defense efforts but also contribute to our overall knowledge of asteroids and their potential impact hazards. NASA’s continued monitoring and study of near-Earth asteroids are essential for safeguarding our planet and advancing our understanding of the universe.
