An asteroid to fly by the Earth this weekend!
A newly discovered asteroid, dubbed 2020VT4, is set to fly by the Earth this weekend. This marks a unique event in our celestial skies.
What is an asteroid?
An asteroid is a small rocky object that orbits the Sun. Asteroids can range in size from tiny specks of dust to large chunks of rock. 2020VT4 is between 30 meters to 10 meters in size, making it a small “near-Earth» asteroid.
What will happen this weekend?
This weekend, 2020VT4 will pass by the Earth at a distance of 0.06 lunar distances (1.48 million kilometers). This is relatively close in space terms and 2020VT4 will be visible with a telescope. It is expected that 2020VT4 will pass between the Moon and the Earth safely, without any risk of collision.
What can you do?
If you have a telescope, now is a great time to observe 2020VT4. However, you don’t have to have a telescope to get the full experience of this event. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this rare occasion:
- Watch the Sky: Take a look outside and watch the stars. Spotting 2020VT4 will be difficult with the naked eye, but you may be able to spot it as a faint speck of light in the night sky.
- Check Out a Planetarium: Visit a planetarium or watch an online video about 2020VT4. A planetarium can provide a great educational experience.
- Join a Star-Gazing Group: Finding and observing 2020VT4 may be easier if you join a local stargazing group. Look for a local event and learn from experienced astronomers.
Conclusion
This weekend marks an important event in the celestial skies. 2020VT4, a newly discovered asteroid, will be passing by the Earth at a 0.06 lunar distances. This rare event can be enjoyed in a number of ways, from watching the night sky to joining a star-gazing group. It’s a unique experience that won’t come around again anytime soon.
