A NASA It has recorded impressive images of a giant asteroid that has passed close to Earth in recent years. The 2011 UL21 celestial object is 1.5 kilometers in diameter and surprised scientists.
During his time in June, it reached 6.6 million kilometers from Earth – also revealing the presence of a small moon in its orbit.
How was the 2011 UL21 asteroid discovered?
O asteroide 2011 UL21 It was discovered in 2011 by Catalina Sky Survey in Arizona. With a diameter of approximately 1.5 kilometers, it turned out to be slightly smaller than scientists initially suspected.
During his time on June 27, the object reached about 6.6 million kilometers from Earth. This distance equals 17 times the distance between the earth and the moon – considered safe by astronomical standards.
Which technology allowed to capture these images?
The images were possible thanks to 70 meter radar from Goldstone Solar System Radarlocated in California. This equipment is part of NASA’s deep space network.
Scientists send radio waves to the asteroid and receive the reflected signs. This technique reveals details of the spherical shape of the celestial body and allows detecting companions, such as small moons.
What are binary asteroids?
About two thirds of asteroids With the size of 2011 UL21 are considered binary systems. This means that they are composed of two gravitational bodies linked, such as a moon orbiting the main asteroid.
The discovery of these systems is vital for astronomers. It allows to estimate orbits, masses and densities based on relative position measurements – crucial information to understand how they originally graduated:
- Precise estimate of mass and density of objects
- Understanding the formation of binary systems
- Analysis of detailed physical characteristics
- Development of planetary defense strategies
Why was the passage of the asteroid so special?
According to the Center for Study of Objects near the land of NASAthe passage of 2011 UL21 It was one of the largest within a radius of 7.5 million kilometers from Earth in the last 124 years.
This rare event offers a unique opportunity to study asteroids and their physical characteristics. Contributes significantly to planetary science and our understanding of the solar system.
How did NASA detected asteroid 2024 mk?
In the same observations, another discovery drew attention: the Asteroids 2024 MK. Discovered on June 16, this 150 meter wide object rose just 295,000 kilometers from Earth.
This distance represents about 75% of Earth’s distance from the moon. Although less than 2011 UL21, his radar images revealed impressive surface details, including 10 meters concaves and rocks.
What is the frequency of these astronomical events?
The frequency with which objects near the land size 2024 MK They pass near our planet is quite rare. Similar events occur only once every two decades.
Therefore, capturing detailed images of this asteroid was an extraordinary opportunity. It allows you to investigate physical properties and expand knowledge about celestial bodies that cross space near Earth.
What is the impact on planetary security?
These observations of Asteroids near Earth They are fundamental to planetary safety and the advancement of astronomy. Studying composition, orbits and physical characteristics allows to develop defense strategies.
Scientists can detect possible future threats and expand understanding of solar formation and evolution. Each discovery contributes to our protection against potentially dangerous impacts.
How do these discoveries advance space science?
The findings contribute to greater awareness of the universe that surrounds us. Remember the importance of continuing to explore and understanding the space we live in.
With constantly advancement technology, new revelations about asteroids are expected to be made. This deepens human knowledge about the complexities of the cosmos and our position in it.
What other space missions are planned?
NASA continues to develop programs of asteroid monitoring to detect potentially dangerous objects. Radar technologies and spatial telescopes are being constantly improved.
Future missions include sample collection probes and asteroid deviation missions. The goal is to ensure that humanity is prepared for any future spatial threat.
Why should we worry about asteroids?
Although most Large asteroids It has already been cataloged, smaller objects still pose risks. The Chelyabinsk event in 2013 showed how meteors can cause significant damage.
Continuous monitoring allows early detection and development of defense technologies. It is an essential investment in the protection of life on earth and the scientific advance of humanity.
