Determining the nature of the closest ever Near Earth Object

Simulation of asteroid 2012 DA14 according to the dimensions determined in the study during its approximation to the Earth on 15 February 2013. Credits: Multimedia Service (IAC)
Simulation of asteroid 2012 DA14 according to the dimensions determined in the study during its approximation to the Earth on 15 February 2013. Credits: Multimedia Service (IAC)
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On 15 February the asteroid 2012 DA14 came within 27,700 kilometres of the Earth, making it our closest ever encounter of a Near Earth Object (NEO). The study, carried out by planetary scientists, has determined the shape, size and primordial chemical composition of the asteroid. These results will help develop strategies against potentially dangerous asteroids in terms of diverting or destroying them, or mitigating the effects of their impact.

Asteroide 2012 DA14 simulation:

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