The largest asteroid of 2021 will pass from Earth on March 21

The 2001 asteroid FO32 is classified by NASA as a potentially dangerous asteroid and is the largest we will see passing close to Earth this year. Specifically, the asteroid has a diameter of 900 meters and was discovered 20 years ago. On March 21, it will travel 2 million kilometers from Earth or five times the distance between Earth and the Moon. Of course, there is no risk of collision with Earth or our natural satellite.

The asteroid is faster than most asteroids we see passing close to Earth and reaches 124,000 kilometers per hour. Amateur astronomers from the southern hemisphere but also in the southern regions of the northern hemisphere will be able to observe it, as it will be bright in the night sky. Medium-sized telescopes and a shutter of at least 8 inches will be needed.

NASA points out to reassure the public that more than 95% of the 2001 FO32-sized asteroids have been recorded and no one has a chance of hitting Earth in the next century.