Asteroids 2011 UL21 and 2024 MK: Close Encounters with Earth
The asteroid 2011 UL21 is set to pass by Earth on Thursday, June 27. This massive space rock, discovered by the Catalina Sky Survey on October 17, 2011, has an estimated diameter of 2.5 kilometers, making it larger than 99% of known near-Earth objects. Despite its size, it poses no threat to Earth, as it will maintain a safe distance of 6.6 million kilometers, roughly 17 times the distance between Earth and the Moon. The European Space Agency (ESA) emphasizes that while 2011 UL21 is intriguing due to its size and orbit, it does not endanger our planet.
Astrophysicist Gianluca Masi of the Virtual Telescope Project notes that the asteroid, classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA), will be visible through telescopes, particularly from the southern hemisphere initially, and later from the northern hemisphere on the evening of June 27. It will be brightest between June 28 and 29, passing through constellations such as Hydra, Virgo, Libra, and Serpent, approaching Hercules.
The Arrival of Asteroid 2024 MK
Following closely on the heels of 2011 UL21 is asteroid 2024 MK, which will make its closest approach to Earth on Saturday, June 29. Discovered recently on June 16, 2024, by the Atlas telescope network, this asteroid has a diameter between 120 and 260 meters. It will pass at a safe distance of 290,000 kilometers, approximately 75% of the Earth-Moon distance. Observers with small telescopes will be able to view 2024 MK starting on the night between June 29 and 30 as it moves through the constellations of Pegasus and Andromeda.
- Asteroid 2011 UL21's close approach is part of a significant astronomical event that coincides with Asteroid Day on June 30. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about asteroids and the potential threat they pose to Earth.
- The story of 2011 UL21 is particularly interesting. Initially considered a potential threat when discovered in 2011, further observations ruled out any possibility of impact with Earth for at least the next century. In contrast, asteroid 2024 MK was only discovered a few days before its approach, highlighting the importance of ongoing asteroid monitoring.
- The Virtual Telescope Project will provide a live stream of 2011 UL21's flyby, starting at 10 p.m. CEST on June 27. This event offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and scientists alike to observe one of the largest near-Earth objects passing by.
