Asteroid bigger than the Empire State Building to fly by Earth this week: What if it strikes?

ESA Labels It 'Infrequent' Due to Size and Distance
Origins and Discovery of Asteroid 2008 DG5
Live Events
Potential Consequences of a Hypothetical Impact
Recent Close Call: The Case of Asteroid 2024 YR4
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What is asteroid 2008 DG5?
When will asteroid 2008 DG5 pass by Earth?
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In a rare astronomical occurrence, an asteroid larger than the Golden Gate Bridge or the Empire State building is expected to make a safe pass by Earth on Thursday, June 5, 2025. The asteroid, formally designated 424482 (2008 DG5), is estimated to measure between 310 to 690 metres (1,017 to 2,264 feet), placing it among the largest 3% of known asteroids, according to data from SpaceReference.org.Despite its massive size, the asteroid poses no threat to Earth. The object will pass at a distance of 2.17 million miles (3.49 million kilometres)—approximately nine times farther than the Moon, which orbits Earth at an average distance of 238,855 miles (384,400 km), as mentioned in a report by Forbes.Although the flyby may seem distant in terrestrial terms, the European Space Agency (ESA) has termed the event 'infrequent' owing to the asteroid's scale and relatively close approach. According to international standards, any object over 492 feet (150 metres) in diameter passing within 4.6 million miles (7.4 million kilometres) is categorized as a 'potentially hazardous object.' Thus, 2008 DG5 falls within that classification, despite no danger of collision.Asteroid 2008 DG5 belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids, known for orbits that intersect Earth's path around the Sun. The object completes a full solar orbit roughly every 514 Earth days. It was first spotted in 2008 by astronomers from the Catalina Sky Survey, an Arizona-based observatory operating under NASA's Near-Earth Object Observation Program.The next anticipated close approach of this asteroid will not occur until 2032, marking this year's flyby as a rare chance for researchers and skywatchers to monitor such a sizable near-Earth object, as per the Forbes report.While 2008 DG5 will pass harmlessly, astronomers often talk about the potential consequences of similar objects entering Earth's atm osphere. An asteroid of this size could cause widespread regional devastation, generating shockwaves, fires, or tsunamis depending on the impact site.To draw a comparison, NASA cites the Tunguska event of 1908, caused by an asteroid only 130 feet (40 metres) wide, which devastated over 2,000 square kilometres of Siberian forest. At the extreme end, the Chicxulub impact, believed to have wiped out the dinosaurs, involved an asteroid estimated at 10 to 15 kilometres in diameter.Earlier this year, a separate asteroid known as 2024 YR4 made headlines after early predictions suggested a possible impact on December 22, 2032. The object, which is approximately 130 to 300 feet in diameter—about as tall as the Statue of Liberty—initially presented a 3.1% chance of collision, the highest ever recorded for an asteroid of that size.The Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in Chile first detected 2024 YR4 on December 27, 2024, triggering widespread concern. However, after further analysis, NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies announced on February 24 that the probability of impact had dropped to near zero. Asteroid 2008 DG5 is a massive near-Earth object belonging to the Apollo group of asteroids, which are known for their Earth-crossing orbits. It measures between 310 to 690 meters (1,017 to 2,264 feet), placing it among the top 3% of the largest known asteroids.The asteroid is expected to make its closest approach to Earth on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

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Numerology Predictions Today, June 22 , 2025: What does your lucky number say about you? Check here

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You are advised to stay alert and avoid falling prey to deceitful individuals or tempting shortcuts. Your natural creativity and imagination, influenced by the Moon, will help you navigate diverse tasks smoothly. Strength lies in your calm and thoughtful approach—don't rush decisions, especially in sensitive matters. Maintain consistent efforts across professional engagements and make use of communication to your advantage. Although you might feel hesitant at times, staying graceful and open to relationships will benefit you. Positivity will prevail if you trust your instincts and remain composed amidst shifting 3For individuals governed by Number 3, June 22, 2025, is a day that boosts professionalism and personal influence. With the root number 4 and destiny number 1, you're likely to experience enhanced momentum in your career and business. Interactions with colleagues and professionals will improve, and you'll progress with enthusiasm and confidence. Patience in personal matters and attentiveness to loved ones will serve you well. You'll maintain control over systems and handle responsibilities effectively. While open to progress, you'll keep a safe distance from unfamiliar people. Ruled by Jupiter, Number 3 individuals uphold strong principles and avoid engaging with superficial distractions. Today, a practical, humble, and structured approach will help you thrive. Let your natural leadership emerge with grace and 4For those ruled by Number 4, June 22, 2025, is a highly favourable day. With both the root number and destiny number aligning to support your growth, you're likely to make solid progress through dedication and smart effort. Your sweet demeanour and disciplined routine will help you earn respect, manage tasks efficiently, and see improvement in health and overall well-being. There's a strong chance of gains in financial matters, and your instinct to take calculated risks will work in your favour. Ruled by Rahu, Number 4 individuals are often unpredictable and drawn to fast-paced change. Today, the support of peers and close ones will uplift your mood and outcomes. Focus remains on professional responsibilities, with trust in order and systems helping you succeed. Harmony in relationships and an appealing personal presence will complement your steady 5For individuals governed by Number 5, June 22, 2025, is a promising and fruitful day. With the support of root number 4 and destiny number 1, you're set to receive desired outcomes in various areas of life. Your communication will be highly influential today, drawing people toward your ideas and intentions. Success will come through your courage, clarity, and consistent efforts. Harmony within the family and with loved ones will uplift your mood, and you'll find satisfaction in both personal and professional spaces. Ruled by Mercury, Number 5 individuals excel in organised environments and possess the skill to find structured paths within limitations. Today, your cooperative spirit and quick thinking will help you reach your goals. Avoid getting swayed by distractions, and maintain emotional sensitivity while pushing forward with enthusiasm and strategic 6For those ruled by Number 6, June 22, 2025, brings a comfortable and balanced day. With root number 4 and destiny number 1, you'll feel emotionally grounded while remaining committed to your goals. Progress will be seen in family matters, and your approach to work will be calm and structured. Although financial gains may be modest, personal comfort and a focus on enhancing your environment will be priorities. Governed by Venus, Number 6 individuals are dedicated and enthusiastic when it comes to relationships and social harmony. Today calls for attention toward your career and business matters—avoid wasting energy on trivial issues. Trust in close companions will grow, and you'll carry a sense of dignity in your actions. Maintain discipline, avoid impulsiveness, and stay away from stubbornness or emotional reactions. Harmony, routine, and patience are your strengths 7For those ruled by Number 7, June 22, 2025, promises fulfilling achievements and influential moments. With the root number 4 and destiny number 1, the day brings opportunities to move ahead smoothly while remaining focused on your goals. You're likely to meet respected individuals and gain from their presence. Your courage, discipline, and quiet determination will win appreciation from family and peers alike. Governed by Ketu, Number 7 individuals are often the silent backbone of any system—modest, highly capable, and not easily understood at a glance. Today, speed and momentum are essential. Maintain your efficiency and focus, especially in traditional or structured fields. Your influence will grow naturally without the need for showmanship—just remain steady and 8For those governed by Number 8, June 22, 2025, is a moderately fruitful day that encourages patience, discipline, and alertness. With the root number 4 and destiny number 1, the focus remains on stability rather than quick results. You are advised to stick to routine, listen to the guidance of seniors, and maintain clarity in responsibilities. Avoid impulsive decisions or unnecessary risks. Ruled by Saturn, Number 8 individuals are service-oriented, grounded, and capable of accomplishing long-term goals through perseverance. Today calls for measured steps, careful financial planning, and respectful handling of relationships. Stay composed, be a silent contributor, and let consistency speak louder than ambition. Work pressure may remain, but with calm focus and humility, progress will unfold gradually and 9For those ruled by Number 9, June 22, 2025, signals professional growth and energised momentum. With the root number 4 and destiny number 1, the day is well-aligned for focused action and meaningful engagement. You'll show enthusiasm in your career, and the environment around you will feel increasingly supportive. Relationships with friends and colleagues will grow stronger, and there will be progress in business or commercial ventures. Governed by Mars, Number 9 individuals are passionate, energetic, and naturally warm in their interactions. Today, your determination, humility, and emotional balance will help strengthen personal bonds while drawing support from superiors and peers alike. Maintain steady interest in your work, use tact in your communications, and let your composed yet dynamic nature guide you toward visible success.