A Close Encounter with Asteroid 2025 FA22

Get ready, space enthusiasts! A massive asteroid, towering like a skyscraper, is set to swiftly zoom past our planet this Thursday, September 18. And the best part? You can catch this celestial event live, either through a backyard telescope or via a free online stream.

Asteroid's Journey and Initial Concerns

Known as 2025 FA22 and measuring between 427 and 951 feet (130 to 290 meters) in diameter, this asteroid was once flagged as a potential threat to Earth. Discovered earlier this year, astronomers initially estimated a slim 0.01% chance of impact in 2089, landing it the top spot on the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Risk List. However, new observations have cleared it of imminent danger.

What to Expect During the Flyby

On Thursday, 2025 FA22 will scud past Earth at an astounding speed of about 24,000 mph (38,600 km/h), coming within 520,000 miles (835,000 kilometers) of us—over twice the distance from the Earth to the Moon. This close encounter is not just a spectacle; it's a significant event for astronomers globally.

The Live Stream Experience

You won’t want to miss this! The Virtual Telescope Project will host a free livestream from Manciano, Italy, starting around 11:00 PM EDT on September 17. With optimal conditions, the asteroid could reach an apparent magnitude of 13, making it visible through decent telescopes or binoculars. To locate it in the night sky, you can check out TheSkyLive.com.

Ongoing Research and Safety Protocols

As researchers train their telescopes on 2025 FA22, NASA's Goldstone radar telescope will provide valuable insights into the asteroid's dimensions and surface properties. Meanwhile, the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) is using this flyby to simulate emergency response strategies, pretending the asteroid still poses a threat in 2089. This preparation will enhance our understanding of how to deflect future hazards.

Looking Ahead: Future Encounters

While 2025 FA22 is no longer deemed a threat, future calculations suggest it won't come too close during its 2089 return, expected to be approximately 3.7 million miles away. However, mark your calendars for 2173, when it will make another pass, this time reaching within 200,000 miles (320,000 kilometers) of Earth—closer than the Moon!

In the world of asteroids, every encounter brings new opportunities for discovery and excitement.