Astronomers around the world are keeping a close eye on Asteroid 2023 BU, a space rock the size of a delivery truck that is set to pass closer than some satellites this week.
According to the BBC, 2023 BU is expected to pass by Earth on April 29th, coming within 0.03 lunar distances of our planet. Though it is set to pass close enough to be visible to the naked eye, scientists have assured the public that the asteroid will not pose any threat to Earth.
Yahoo News reports that this is not the first time an asteroid has come close to Earth. In fact, 2023 BU is the fourth asteroid to make an exceedingly close approach to our planet this year. The first asteroid, 2021 GW4, passed within 0.2 lunar distances of Earth in February.
FOX 10 Phoenix reports that 2023 BU was only recently discovered, having been located by the Catalina Sky Survey in Arizona on April 1. The asteroid is estimated to be between 10 and 20 meters in diameter, and will be visible to the naked eye as it passes by Earth on April 29th.
ABC News reminds us that asteroids of this size are not uncommon, and that Earth is constantly bombarded by small space rocks. Though 2023 BU is set to pass close to Earth, it will not come close enough to pose any threat.
ABC7 adds that the asteroid’s close approach to Earth is an exciting opportunity for astronomers around the world, who will be able to get an up-close look at the space rock as it passes by.
For more coverage on Asteroid 2023 BU, visit the View Full Coverage on USNN link provided.