NASA recently captured radar images of a stadium-sized asteroid as it made a close approach to Earth. The asteroid, known as 2008 OS7, passed by our planet at a safe distance, giving scientists a unique opportunity to study its surface and characteristics. Let’s delve into the details of this fascinating event.
1. Approach of Asteroid 2008 OS7:
The asteroid 2008 OS7 made a close flyby past Earth on February 2, coming within a distance of about 2.9 million kilometers. This distance is more than seven times the gap between Earth and the Moon.
2. Deep Space Network Radar Images:
NASA’s Deep Space Network radar system captured images of the slowly-spinning asteroid during its close approach. The radar images provided valuable insights into the asteroid’s size, shape, and surface features.
3. Discovery and Characteristics of Asteroid:
Asteroid 2008 OS7 was initially discovered on July 30, 2009, during routine search operations for near-Earth objects by the Catalina Sky Survey. The asteroid was estimated to be between 200 and 500 meters wide, rotating once every 29 and a half hours.
4. Analysis of Radar Images:
Scientists at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory used the powerful 70-meter Goldstone Solar System Radar antenna dish to study the asteroid’s surface during its close approach. The radar images revealed a mix of rounded and angular regions on the asteroid’s surface.
5. Safety and Future Observations:
Despite its size, asteroid 2008 OS7 poses no threat to Earth. NASA continues to monitor and study near-Earth objects to better understand their characteristics and potential risks. Future observations and studies will contribute to our knowledge of asteroids and their impact on our planet.
FAQs:
1. Q: What is the size of asteroid 2008 OS7?
A: The asteroid was estimated to be between 150 and 200 meters wide, smaller than the initial estimates.
2. Q: How far did the asteroid pass by Earth during its close approach?
A: The asteroid passed by Earth at a safe distance of about 2.9 million kilometers.
3. Q: What radar system did NASA use to capture images of the asteroid?
A: NASA used the Deep Space Network radar system to capture images of asteroid 2008 OS7.
4. Q: How often does asteroid 2008 OS7 rotate?
A: The asteroid rotates once every 29 and a half hours.
5. Q: Does asteroid 2008 OS7 pose any threat to Earth?
A: No, the asteroid poses no threat to Earth and passed by at a safe distance.