Tue Dec 03 10:13:28 UTC 2024: ## Asteroid 2020 XR to Make Safe Pass of Earth in December
**Darmstadt, Germany** – A large asteroid, designated 2020 XR, will make a close but safe pass by Earth on December 4th, 2024, at 5:26 UTC (6:26 CET), the European Space Agency (ESA) announced today. The asteroid, measuring between 300 and 700 meters in diameter, will pass within approximately six times the Earth-Moon distance.
Initial observations four years ago briefly raised concerns about a potential collision in 2028. However, by analyzing older astronomical data, scientists were able to refine the asteroid’s orbital calculations and definitively rule out any risk of impact for at least the next century. The close approach offers a valuable opportunity for scientists to further study near-Earth objects and refine planetary defense strategies. The ESA encourages the public to learn more about asteroids and its ongoing planetary defense efforts.
First Piper 