NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) reported that an asteroid, designated COWECP5, made an imminent approach towards Earth but ultimately burned up in the atmosphere above Eastern Siberia around 11:14 a.m. ET on Tuesday. This asteroid, measuring approximately 27 inches in diameter, was tracked by astronomers at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona, and it marked the fourth asteroid to enter Earth’s atmosphere in 2024.
COWECP5 is notable as the 11th asteroid to be confirmed as an “imminent impactor,” demonstrating the progressive capabilities of astronomers in detecting space objects prior to their entry into the atmosphere. The year has already seen three other imminent impactors, occurring in late October, early September, and January.
Despite the close call, the asteroid posed no threat, as its size means there was no need for drastic measures like nuclear intervention. The first detected impactor of the year, 2024 BX1, entered over Berlin in January and was about 3.3 feet wide, disintegrating harmlessly. Subsequent asteroids, such as 2024 RW1, created a fireball over the Philippines, while 2024 UQ was detected just two hours before burning up over the Pacific Ocean.
NASA estimates that small fragments from asteroids and comets enter Earth’s atmosphere nearly daily, and larger asteroids pass between the Earth and the Moon several times each month. As of 2019, more than 19,000 near-Earth objects (NEOs) have been identified, with approximately 30 new discoveries made each week.
For those curious about asteroids, NASA provides a resourceful Asteroid Watch website, allowing the public to track upcoming asteroid approaches and deepen their understanding of these celestial visitors.
This close encounter with COWECP5 underscores humanity’s advancements in space monitoring and detection. With continuous progress in tracking near-Earth objects, it’s reassuring to know that the risk of significant asteroid impacts remains low in the foreseeable future. The successful detection of such objects is a testament to the growing effectiveness of global astronomical efforts, showcasing a collaborative drive to safeguard our planet.