A small asteroid recently detected on a collision course with Earth is set to enter our atmosphere today, December 3. Measuring approximately 27 inches (70 centimeters) across, the asteroid was identified by astronomers at the Kitt Peak National Observatory located near Tucson, Arizona. It is predicted to make contact with the atmosphere around 11:15 a.m. ET (1615 GMT).
According to the European Space Agency, this asteroid poses no threat to Earth and is instead expected to create a spectacular fireball visible over northern Siberia. Designated as C0WEPC5, it marks the fourth “imminent impactor” discovered in 2024. This classification includes asteroids that are identified just hours before they are set to impact the Earth, bringing the total count of confirmed imminent impactors to 11.
The occurrence highlights the growing capability of astronomers to detect and track potentially hazardous objects. This year alone has seen several notable imminent impactors, including asteroid 2024 UQ, which was discovered just two hours before it disintegrated over the Pacific Ocean, and 2024 BX1, which harmlessly burned up over Berlin in January.
Space agencies across the globe, including NASA, the European Space Agency, and others, are ramping up their surveillance systems to monitor near-Earth objects. Notably, NASA is developing the NEO Surveyor, an advanced infrared telescope aimed at identifying potentially hazardous asteroids.
This incident serves as a reassuring reminder of our advancing monitoring capabilities in space observation. It emphasizes a collaborative global effort to ensure the safety of our planet while also marveling at the natural wonders of our universe, such as spectacular fireballs lighting up the sky.
Overall, ongoing efforts in asteroid detection technology not only protect our planet but also fuel scientific discovery and a deeper understanding of our cosmic neighborhood.