NASA Calculates Potential Earth Impact Date for Asteroid Bennu
Thankfully, the likelihood of such an event is estimated at around 1 in 2,700, according to a 2021 study. However, NASA remains vigilant, given the catastrophic consequences if it were to occur.
NASA has calculated the exact date when Earth might face a cataclysmic collision with the asteroid known as Bennu, often dubbed the "doomsday asteroid." The potential impact is slated for September 24, 2182.
Bennu is classified as a "city-killer" due to its immense size, measuring 1,610 feet wide. In the event of a collision with Earth, it could unleash energy equivalent to approximately 24 nuclear bombs, making it a significant threat.
Thankfully, the likelihood of such an event is estimated at around 1 in 2,700, according to a 2021 study. However, NASA remains vigilant, given the catastrophic consequences if it were to occur.
NASA has been closely monitoring Bennu and launched the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in 2016 on a seven-year mission to collect samples from the asteroid. The spacecraft is set to return to Earth with valuable samples from Bennu's surface. Analyzing these samples will provide crucial insights into the asteroid's composition and behavior, aiding scientists in predicting its future movements.