A massive asteroid, large enough to destroy a city, will pass between Earth and the Moon’s orbits this weekend, fortunately missing both celestial bodies. Designated 2023 DZ2, the asteroid was discovered just a month ago.
On Saturday, the asteroid will come within 515,000 kilometers of the Moon before making its closest approach to Earth hours later. It is unusual for an asteroid of this size, with an estimated diameter of 40 to 90 meters, to come so near our planet.
NASA considers this event a crucial opportunity for astronomers to expand their understanding of asteroids, which may prove valuable if a hazardous object with the potential to collide with Earth is ever detected. Richard Moissl, the European Space Agency’s planetary defense chief, reassured the public that the “city killer” asteroid poses no threat to Earth, adding that its proximity offers an excellent chance for observation.
At a distance of just 68,000 kilometers, the asteroid will be visible worldwide through binoculars and small telescopes. The Virtual Telescope Project will also provide a live webcast of the asteroid’s approach.
Scientists have determined that 2023 DZ2 is set to return toward Earth’s orbit in 2026, but have ruled out any risk of collision at that time as well.
