A newly discovered asteroid, designated 2026 JH2, is set to make a close approach to Earth today, May 18, 2026. Measuring approximately 115 feet (35 meters) in diameter, the space rock will pass by our planet at a safe distance, posing no threat of impact.
Discovery and Origin
The asteroid was first identified on May 10, 2026, by astronomers at the Mount Lemmon Observatory in Tucson, Arizona. The discovery was made as part of the Catalina Sky Survey, a NASA-funded program that scans the sky for near-Earth objects (NEOs). 2026 JH2 belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids, which have orbits that cross Earth's path around the Sun.
Close Approach Details
According to NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), 2026 JH2 will fly past Earth at a distance of about 1.2 million miles (1.9 million kilometers), which is roughly five times the distance between Earth and the Moon. At its closest point, the asteroid will travel at a speed of approximately 12.4 kilometers per second (27,700 mph).
Can We Spot It?
While 2026 JH2 is relatively large for a near-Earth asteroid, it will not be visible to the naked eye due to its faintness. However, amateur astronomers with moderate-sized telescopes (at least 8 inches in aperture) may be able to observe it under dark skies. The asteroid will appear as a slow-moving star-like point of light. Observers can use online tools like JPL's Horizons system to get precise coordinates for their location.
Significance of the Flyby
Events like this provide valuable opportunities for scientists to study asteroids up close. Radar observations, if conducted, can reveal details about the asteroid's shape, size, and rotation. The Catalina Sky Survey continues to play a crucial role in detecting and tracking potentially hazardous asteroids, ensuring Earth's safety.
Future Approaches
Based on current orbital calculations, 2026 JH2 is not expected to pose any threat to Earth for at least the next 100 years. Its next close approach is predicted to occur in 2031, though at a much greater distance.
Stay tuned for more updates on asteroid flybys and other space news.
