The largest asteroid approaching Earth this year

On May 27, asteroid 7335 (1989 JA) with a diameter of 1.8 kilometers will fly near the Earth. There is no real threat of a collision with it, although its consequences would be catastrophic.

Large asteroid will fly near the Earth. Source: cdn.dnaindia.com

Close Asteroid Flyby

On May 27, asteroid 7335 (1989 JA) will cross the Earth’s orbit near our planet. This is distinguished from the numerous similar events that occur almost monthly by the size of the cosmic body. Its diameter is 1.8 kilometers, that is, it is about twice as large as the tallest building in the world — the Burj Khalifa skyscraper.

The asteroid is considered relatively dangerous. But this is caused only by its colossal size. In the event of a collision with the Earth, it would pose a threat to all mankind. However, this time it will pass from us at a distance of 4 million kilometers. That’s about ten times farther than the Moon. Astronomers are also aware of more dangerous space rocks.

Span 7335 (1989 JA) might not be noticed at all if not for its size. It is the largest asteroid that will approach our planet in 2022. In Kyiv, it will be possible to view it with a small telescope at dusk on May 25, low over the southern horizon. At the moment of maximum approach, it will not be visible from the territory of Ukraine.

Does the largest asteroid pose a danger

The largest asteroid 2022 7335 (1989 JA) belongs to the Apollo group. These objects rotate near the Sun, regularly crossing the Earth’s orbit. Their rotation period is several years. But they don’t approach the Earth every time. 

For example, 7335 (1989 JA) will get closer to our planet again only in 2055, and then it will pass even further away from our planet than it is now. In general, astronomers know about 29,000 near-Earth asteroids, but most of them are much smaller than the current space visitor. Despite this, their tracking continues.

According to www.sciencealert.com

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