UAE Observatory Captures Asteroid Before It Strikes Earth

Publish date: Thursday، 05 September 2024

What timing! The Al Khatem Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi recently captured an extraordinary celestial event: asteroid 2024 RW1 making its approach to Earth. This fleeting moment was captured just an hour before the asteroid's collision with the planet.

Live Images from the Astronomy Centre

Asteroid 2024 RW1 was documented by observer Mohammed Awda between 15:40 and 15:50 GMT. The Astronomy Centre shared these stunning images via Twitter, giving us a rare glimpse of this cosmic visitor.

UAE Observatory Captures Asteroid Before It Strikes Earth

Impact and Location of the Asteroid

The one-meter-wide asteroid eventually landed near Luzon Island in the Philippines. According to various social media sources, it hit Earth at approximately 16:39 UTC (8:39 PM UAE time), as anticipated by the European Space Agency (ESA).

UAE Observatory Captures Asteroid Before It Strikes Earth

No Cause for Concern

The International Meteor Organization reassured the public that asteroid 2024 RW1 (previously known as CAQTDL2) poses no threat. It will not cause any damage, as its expected entry into Earth's atmosphere will result in a harmless fireball.

Visibility Affected by Weather Conditions

The ESA noted that visibility of the asteroid's atmospheric entry would likely be limited due to Typhoon Yagi and the ongoing Southwest Monsoon. These weather conditions would obscure the fireball created by the asteroid's disintegration.

Trajectory and Collision Path

For those interested in the asteroid's trajectory, a map showing its collision path with Earth is available. This visual aid highlights the asteroid's approach and impact location, providing a clear picture of its journey.

UAE Observatory Captures Asteroid Before It Strikes Earth

Live Images from the Astronomy Centre

Impact and Location of the Asteroid

No Cause for Concern

Visibility Affected by Weather Conditions

Trajectory and Collision Path

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