Small Asteroid Lights Up Russian Skies in Spectacular Fireball
On December 3, 2024, a small asteroid, designated C0WEPC5, entered Earth's
atmosphere above Yakutia, a remote region in far northeastern Russia,
creating a dramatic fireball that lit up the night sky. Measuring
approximately 70 cm (27.5 inches) across, the asteroid was harmless due to
its small size, burning up completely upon atmospheric entry.
The European Space Agency (ESA) detected the asteroid just hours before its impact, thanks to advanced global observation systems. Despite the limited warning time, ESA accurately predicted the impact with a remarkable precision of ±10 seconds. This prediction was possible through collaboration with astronomers worldwide.
C0WEPC5 represents the fourth asteroid classified as an "imminent impactor" in 2024 and only the 11th confirmed in history. Imminent impactors are celestial objects identified just before they strike Earth. Their discovery highlights the increasing effectiveness of asteroid tracking and early warning systems, which aim to improve planetary defense capabilities.
The fireball event captivated residents of Yakutia, many of whom captured and shared videos of the spectacle. Events like this serve as reminders of Earth’s dynamic relationship with space and the importance of monitoring near-Earth objects to mitigate future risks.
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