On December 3, 2024, a small asteroid designated C0WEPC5 entered Earth’s atmosphere over northeastern Siberia, producing a harmless yet spectacular fireball. The asteroid, measuring approximately 70 centimeters (27 inches) in diameter, was detected just 12 hours before impact by NASA’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS).
Harmless Celestial Event
Traveling at a speed of 9.6 miles per second, C0WEPC5 disintegrated upon entering the atmosphere at a 58-degree angle, creating a dazzling display visible from Russia’s Yakutia region. Residents reported witnessing a bright light streaking across the sky before it vanished. The European Space Agency (ESA) confirmed the asteroid posed no threat, as it burned up entirely upon entry.
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Advancements in Asteroid Detection
C0WEPC5 is the fourth “imminent impactor” detected in 2024 and the 11th such asteroid identified before atmospheric entry since global tracking systems were established. NASA and ESA have been enhancing near-Earth object monitoring capabilities to detect asteroids like this one with remarkable precision. Richard Moissl of ESA highlighted that the event was predicted with an accuracy of plus or minus ten seconds, showcasing advancements in planetary defense.
The ESA’s Flyeye telescopes, inspired by the compound eyes of insects, are pivotal in these efforts. By dividing images into 16 subimages, they dramatically expand the field of view, enabling faster scans of the entire sky within 48 hours.
A Reminder of Space’s Dynamic Nature
This event highlights the importance of monitoring celestial objects. According to ESA, many asteroids remain hidden in the Sun’s glare, and their trajectories can only be detected with advanced systems. Events like this serve as reminders of Earth’s vulnerability and the need for vigilance.
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Adding to this week’s cosmic activity, a much larger asteroid, 2020 XR, is set to pass Earth on December 4 at 12:27 a.m. ET. Measuring about 1,200 feet in diameter, it will safely pass at a distance of 1.37 million miles, far beyond the threshold of potential impact. NASA classifies any asteroid passing within 4.6 million miles as “potentially hazardous,” though it assures there is no threat from 2020 XR.