NASA has issued an alert as two massive asteroids, each the size of a giant airplane, are heading towards Earth today, traveling at incredible speeds

This December, asteroid enthusiasts are in for an exciting celestial event as two large asteroids, 2024 XW15 and 2024 XC16, are set to pass close to Earth today. According to NASA, while these asteroids are considered “near misses,” scientists have reassured that our planet is not in any danger

The asteroid 2024 XW15 will pass by at a distance of 6.46 million kilometers from Earth on December 13, 2024, at 9:42 AM — that’s more than 16 times the average distance between Earth and the Moon. Though it’s being called a “near miss,” experts have confirmed that there is no threat to Earth. These rare events offer valuable chances to observe Near-Earth Objects (NEOs), helping scientists gather important data to better understand and prepare for future occurrences

Both 2024 XW15 and 2024 XC16 are ancient remnants from the early solar system, formed over 4.6 billion years ago. Keeping track of these rocky bodies, which come in different sizes and compositions, is crucial since their orbits occasionally bring them near Earth. This ongoing observation helps scientists gain knowledge that could be key for safeguarding our planet in the future