A massive asteroid, officially named 2025 FA22, is set to make a close approach to Earth on September 18, 2025. Nearly the size of a New York skyscraper, this asteroid will race past the planet at over 24,000 mph, capturing the attention of astronomers and space enthusiasts worldwide. While its size and speed initially raised concerns, NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) have confirmed that it poses no immediate threat.The asteroid’s flyby offers a rare opportunity to observe a large near-Earth object (NEO) up close, providing insights into the structure and behavior of such celestial bodies, which are remnants from the early solar system.
Asteroid 2025 FA22: Size, speed and distance to close flyby today
Asteroid 2025 FA22 is estimated to measure between 427 and 951 feet across, making it comparable in height to a large skyscraper and Qutub Minar. It was first detected in March 2025 by astronomers using a specialised telescope in Hawaii. Initially, its trajectory and size warranted inclusion on ESA’s watchlist of potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs).ESA researchers explained that while impacts of this scale are extremely rare, the consequences would be catastrophic if one were to strike Earth. Fortunately, detailed tracking has since ruled out any risk. The asteroid has now been officially removed from the risk table, confirming that Earth is safe.2025 FA22 will safely pass at approximately 4.6 million miles from Earth, well beyond the Moon’s orbit. Its next predicted flybys are expected in 2089 and 2173, giving scientists additional opportunities to study it.Although the asteroid will be invisible to the naked eye, astronomers using high-powered telescopes or binoculars may spot it as a faint dot against the night sky in the early morning hours of September 18. This rare observation allows scientists to refine models for asteroid trajectories and monitor future near-Earth object activity.
Asteroid 2025 FA22: Why it was initially considered dangerous
NASA classifies any object larger than 492 feet passing within 4.6 million miles of Earth as a potentially hazardous asteroid. Because of its enormous size, mass, and velocity, 2025 FA22 could have crushed entire cities and triggered secondary disasters like fires, tsunamis, or widespread destruction if it were on a collision course.By tracking and categorizing such objects, astronomers ensure that planetary defense measures can be prepared for rare but high-impact events. This system also allows scientists to prioritize observations of objects that pose a genuine threat to Earth.
NASA’s asteroid watch: Understanding 1.3 million space rocks
Asteroids are rocky remnants of the early solar system, formed billions of years ago. They vary widely in size, composition, and orbit. NASA estimates there are over 1.3 million asteroids in the solar system, with more than 30,000 classified as near-Earth objects (NEOs).These objects are continuously monitored by programs like NASA’s Asteroid Watch, which tracks any asteroid that could pass within 4.6 million miles of Earth. Observing asteroids like 2025 FA22 provides insights into the composition, movement, and behavior of ancient celestial bodies. Such research is crucial for planetary defense, scientific study, and understanding the early solar system.
How scientists track asteroids
Detection of asteroids involves sensitive telescopes and imaging technology, capable of spotting faint objects against the starry sky. Once an asteroid is detected, scientists track its orbit over time, measuring its speed, trajectory, and potential risk to Earth.Accurate tracking allows NASA and ESA to update risk tables, ensuring that alerts are issued only for asteroids that truly pose a threat. This monitoring system has proven essential for predicting asteroid flybys and planning future mitigation strategies.
Why 2025 FA22’s flyby is important for science
While 2025 FA22 poses no danger, its close approach is significant for scientific research. Observing such a skyscraper-sized asteroid helps improve our understanding of asteroid composition, orbit dynamics, and behavior, which is vital for future planetary defense initiatives.Astronomers recommend using high-powered telescopes or binoculars for the best chance to spot the asteroid as it passes. Each observation contributes to global knowledge about NEOs and enhances preparedness for potential asteroid threats in the future.Also Read | Solar eclipse 2025: Will ‘surya grahan’ be on September 20, 21, or 23? Timings, visibility and everything you need to know