The asteroid will pass Earth at a distance of 6.68 million km.
Due to its size (335 meters) and proximity, it's classified as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA).
Scientists monitor it closely, as Apollo asteroids can change course over time due to the Yarkovsky effect.
A massive asteroid roughly the size of the Eiffel Tower is set to safely fly past Earth this weekend, according to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Named 2003 MH4, the asteroid spans approximately 1,100 feet (335 meters) and is hurtling through space at a speed of over 30,000 km/h. Despite its close approach, scientists confirm there’s no cause for alarm, though it remains under watch due to its classification as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid.
Asteroid 2003 MH4: Distance and threat (if they possess any)
According to NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Asteroid 2003 MH4 is a member of the Apollo family, known to cross Earth’s orbital path. Notably, it has a width of 335 metres, approximately 1,100 feet in size – almost the height of a 100-storey building. It will pass by Earth on 24 May at 4:07 PM IST (10:37 UTC) at 30,060 kilometres per hour.
While Asteroid 2003 MH4 will be travelling in a safe space, it is classified as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA) due to its close orbit and proximity. It will be travelling within 6.68 million kilometres of Earth, roughly 17 times the Moon’s distance. Do note that objects bigger than 140 metres approaching Earth within 7.5 million kilometres are classified as PHAs.
NASA’s Centre for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) has said, “This weekend’s sighting is a warning, not a threat.”
Though the 2003 MH4 doesn’t threaten the Earth, it raises concerns as Apollo asteroids tend to change direction over time. The Yarkovsky effect from sunlight can alter the asteroids’ trajectory at any time. If one of these rocks ever collides with Earth, it may cause massive destruction.
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Himani Jha
Himani Jha is a tech news writer at Digit. Passionate about smartphones and consumer technology, she has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music. View Full Profile
