Near Miss Day is observed annually on March 23. What would you do if an enormous asteroid was about to strike the Earth? On March 23, 1989, a mountain-sized asteroid came dangerously near to colliding with Earth. Fortunately, it was a narrow escape! Otherwise, the collision would have had catastrophic consequences. People commemorate this day to express their gratitude that the asteroid did not wipe out humanity. Since 1989, according to scientists and astronomers, numerous meteoroids and asteroids have passed by Earth. However, the likelihood of an asteroid striking Earth is low. That’s good news!
The background of Near Miss Day
Have you ever pondered the nature of asteroids? Asteroids are objects that were formed subsequent to the formation of our solar system; they are the remnants of a tremendous process. Asclepius is an asteroid with a diameter of 0.43 kilometers, which is comparable to a football field.
On March 22, 1989, Asclepius passed within approximately 500,000 miles of the Earth. However, scientists did not uncover this fact until nine days later. Numerous geophysicists believe that the collision between Asclepius and the Earth would have unleashed energy equivalent to a 600 megaton atomic weapon!
The significance of this day stems from the fact that the planet narrowly avoided a catastrophe. Everyone has a second opportunity in life. This event altered our perception of cosmic influences, making us recognize that humanity has no control whatsoever over the universe.
Since then, there have been significant advancements in space programs. To study the existence of life on adjacent planets, missions were organized and space shuttles are sent. Near Miss Day also serves as a reminder that asteroids and meteorites pose a threat to Earth and humanity.
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT NEAR MISS DAY
Telescopes and radars were unable to detect the asteroid.
Ceres is the largest known asteroid.
William Herschel was the first to coin the term “asteroids” for these massive objects.
Each year, a meteoroid roughly the size of a vehicle crosses the orbit of the Earth.
600,000 asteroids exist within the solar system.
NEAR MISS DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | March 23 | Thursday |
| 2024 | March 23 | Saturday |
| 2025 | March 23 | Sunday |
| 2026 | March 23 | Monday |
| 2027 | March 23 | Tuesday |
