Mark Your Calendars for September 18, 2025!

A colossal asteroid, stretching over 530 feet—about the length of two football fields—is set to make a thrillingly close approach to Earth on September 18, 2025. Imagine the sight of such a massive object gliding through space, just 523,000 miles away—twice the distance from Earth to the moon!

Asteroid 2025 FA22: A Cosmic Marvel!

Known as 2025 FA22, this near-Earth giant is guaranteed to draw attention. According to renowned astronomer Gianluca Masi of The Virtual Telescope Project, such close encounters with asteroids this size only occur once every decade!

Origin of 2025 FA22's Discovery

First spotted by the Pan-STARRS 2 telescope back in March, 2025 FA22 was initially considered a potential threat to Earth, predicted to collide in 2089. However, after further observations, scientists recalculated its orbit and cleared it from the European Space Agency's Risk List.

What If It Hit?

Should disaster strike, the Earth Impact Effects Program reveals that the impact of an asteroid like 2025 FA22 could create a crater a staggering 2.5 miles wide. Fortunately, there's no need to panic—this asteroid is just passing us by!

Watch the Show Live!

Astronomy enthusiasts, rejoice! The asteroid will reach a brightness magnitude of 13.2 between September 18 and 22, making it visible with even small backyard telescopes. Don’t miss The Virtual Telescope Project’s live online observation on September 18 at 03:00 UTC (or September 17 at 10:00 p.m. EST), streaming real-time views from Italy.

An Enchanting Night Sky!

On the same night, a delicate crescent moon will accompany Venus in the sky, creating a stunning backdrop. The bright star Regulus will also join the celestial display, positioned closely nearby. The excitement doesn’t stop there; this stellar showcase coincides with a spectacular lineup of planets, including Jupiter and Saturn, as they twinkle like jewels in the night.

Get Ready for an Astronomical Adventure!

As Saturn prepares for its annual opposition on September 21, and a new moon invites a solar eclipse for lucky observers in the Southern Hemisphere, there's never been a better time to gaze up and contemplate our universe. Keep your eyes peeled for this once-in-a-decade cosmic event!