Another space rock has been recently discovered and is expected to pass by Earth on March 25, 2023. The asteroid, labeled as 2023 DZ2, was found by astronomers at the observatory of La Palma in late February 2023. It is part of the Apollo group of asteroids and has an estimated size of 233 feet (71 meters) in diameter, according to EarthSky.
The asteroid will pass by Earth at a distance that is less than halfway to the moon. Although the closest approach to Earth is predicted to occur at around 17:02 UTC (1:02 p.m. EDT) on March 25, more observations may be needed to update the exact time and other details of its trajectory.
No reasons to worry
Although 2023 DZ2 is classified as an Apollo asteroid, which has a larger orbit than Earth’s around the Sun, it is still considered to pose no threat to our planet. Amateur astronomers might even be able to catch a glimpse of the asteroid as it speeds by. As with most asteroids that pass by Earth, 2023 DZ2 serves as a reminder of the importance of continued research and observation of near-Earth objects to better understand and potentially mitigate any potential risks in the future.
Astronomers are constantly discovering new asteroids in space, including large ones. The frequency of these discoveries can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size and location of the asteroid, as well as the capabilities of the telescopes and other instruments used for detection.
In general, large asteroids are less common than smaller ones, but they can still be discovered relatively frequently. According to NASA, as of February 2023, there were over 17,500 known near-Earth objects (NEOs), which includes asteroids and comets, with over 2,000 of them classified as potentially hazardous asteroids.
