In could just be Santa making some early deliveries, but those looking to spot a massive space rock dubbed the “Christmas asteroid” by the European Space Agency will want to get up early on Thursday.
The asteroid, designated as 2015 RN35, will pass by Earth at 3:12 a.m. EST. This is the closest that asteroid comes to our planet, flying within 430,000 miles of Earth.
The ESA has announced a challenge for all would-be astronomers, releasing a new asteroid toolkit to help spot the Christmas asteroid. The space agency is also asking space fans to share photos they capture of the rock.
Astronomers are still learning about the asteroid, which is estimated to be between 200 to 460 feet. This would make it roughly the size of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
However, astronomers are still unaware of what the asteroid is made of, giving the Christmas asteroid even more mystery.
“This asteroid isn't well known,” the ESA said in a statement. “We don't know what it's made of or precisely how big it is or if it’s spinning on its axis or even know its orbit particularly well. (Enough to know it won't strike in the next century!).”
Related
Those who don’t want to wait up tonight or get up early tomorrow shouldn’t stress, as the asteroid will be visible until Monday, Dec. 19.
A telescope will be needed to view the space rock, but the ESA shared that it will be viewable with a telescope that is 30 centimeters and larger.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign up and follow Audacy
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram