Watch an asteroid the size of a blue whale hurtle towards Earth live online May 18
Science
18 May 2026
2 min read
Asteroid Watch: What You Need to Know About the Latest Near-Earth Object
The latest news is buzzing with excitement as astronomers track a newly discovered asteroid that's set to make its closest approach to Earth on May 18. This tiny celestial body, estimated to be around 52-114 feet in diameter, has caught the attention of space enthusiasts worldwide.
The Buzz Around Asteroid 2026 JH2
This asteroid was first detected on May 10 by the Mount Lemmon Survey in Arizona and is expected to pass within 91 miles of our planet at its closest approach. The estimated distance from Earth will vary between 56,628 miles (91,135 kilometers) and 5,234 miles (8,490 kilometers). While some astronomers consider this a minor threat, others are more cautious, citing the asteroid's size.
Expert Evidence
The European Space Agency estimates that Asteroid 2026 JH2 measures around 16-35 meters in diameter. This small but significant object will make its closest approach to Earth at 5:23 p.m. (2123 GMT) on May 18, passing within 56,628 miles of our planet.
Practical Takeaways
- If you're interested in watching the flyby live online, sign up for the Virtual Telescope Project YouTube livestream starting at 3:45 p.m. EDT. - The asteroid will be visible to the naked eye from Manciano, Italy, but its magnitude (magnitude 11.5) suggests it won't be as prominent as other celestial objects. - This close approach serves as a reminder of the vastness and unpredictability of space.
A New Era for Asteroid Tracking
The discovery of new asteroids like 2026 JH2 highlights the ongoing effort to track and study these tiny bodies. As researchers continue to monitor their movements, we may uncover more secrets about our universe.
Note to readers:
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