Asteroid 2026 JH2 to Safely Pass Earth Today
A newly discovered asteroid, 2026 JH2, roughly the size of a blue whale, will pass Earth on May 18 at a safe distance. Live online streams will be available to observe the event.
An asteroid, newly designated 2026 JH2 and estimated to be the size of an adult blue whale, will make a close but safe pass by Earth on May 18. The celestial visitor will approach within approximately 56,628 miles (91,135 kilometers) of our planet, a distance representing about 24% of the average separation between the Earth and the Moon. The event offers a rare opportunity for skygazers to witness an asteroid flyby in real-time through online telescopes.
The near-Earth asteroid 2026 JH2 was first identified just last week, on May 10, by astronomers at the Mount Lemmon Survey in Arizona. Subsequent observations, analyzed by the European Space Agency (ESA), suggest its dimensions range from 52 to 114 feet (16-35 meters), based on its observed brightness. At its closest approach, scheduled for 5:23 p.m. EDT (2123 GMT) on May 18, the asteroid will be traveling at a remarkable speed of approximately 19,417 mph (31,248 km/h) relative to Earth.
Virtual Telescope Project to Broadcast Flyby
The Virtual Telescope Project will host a free livestream of the asteroid's passage, beginning at 3:45 p.m. EDT (19:45 GMT) on May 18. This broadcast is contingent on favorable weather conditions at the observation site in Manciano, Italy.
Gianluca Masi, founder of the Virtual Telescope Project, explained the viewing experience. "At the time of the observation, the object will be moving pretty fast against the stars, but our advanced telescopes will precisely track 2026 JH2 while it will be almost at its minimum distance from us, peaking in brightness, around magnitude 11.5, before it will set below our horizon," Masi stated. He further elaborated on the visual aspect, noting, "We will see it like a sharp dot of light, moving against the starry background, with stars leaving long streaks, as we will be tracking the asteroid."
While 2026 JH2 poses no threat to Earth or its Moon during this close encounter, its proximity and brightness will make it a compelling subject for telescopic observation. The event highlights ongoing efforts in asteroid detection and tracking, crucial for planetary defense. Scientists continually monitor the skies for near-Earth objects that could potentially pose a risk, though the vast majority of detected asteroids are found to be harmless.
The discovery and tracking of asteroids like 2026 JH2 are vital components of space science. By understanding the orbits and characteristics of these celestial bodies, researchers can better assess potential future impacts and develop strategies for mitigation if necessary. The data gathered from such close flybys provides invaluable insights into the composition and formation of asteroids, contributing to our broader understanding of the solar system's history.