A 140-foot asteroid is set to sweep past Earth today, and it seems everyone is taking notice. Astronomers have been tracking the space rock, officially named 2026 CU1, as it makes its high-speed journey through the inner solar system. It travels at nearly 18,803 miles per hour. Yet, NASA reassures us that it poses no danger. These flybys remind us that while space is vast, we are not alone. Experts say continuous monitoring of near-Earth objects is critical for understanding potential threats and refining planetary defence strategies.

NASA monitors 140-foot asteroid 2026 CU1: Size and distance

Asteroid 2026 CU1 is classified as an Aten asteroid, a group that regularly crosses Earth’s orbit. It measures about 140 feet across, which is small compared with some asteroids but still big enough to attract attention. Scientists keep a close watch on it because its path brings it near our planet. Even though it won’t hit Earth, the flyby is a rare chance to study such objects up close. The asteroid races through space at nearly 18,803 miles per hour, moving faster than most satellites orbiting our planet. That speed, combined with its relatively close approach that is about 764,000 miles from Earth.

NASA tracks asteroid but confirms it’s not dangerous

NASA uses strict criteria to define a potentially hazardous asteroid. An object must come within 7.4 million kilometres of Earth and be wider than 85 metres. Asteroid 2026 CU1 meets neither of these thresholds. That means, experts say, it is not considered dangerous.Even so, scientists continue to monitor it. Continuous tracking ensures that any future threat would be detected in time.

Why asteroid monitoring is important

Asteroid 2026 CU1 poses no threat to us now, but the universe is an unpredictable place. It is always better to be prepared than to be complacent. Even a small body like an asteroid can surprise us if it is not closely monitored.Studying flybys such as this one helps scientists obtain important data and improve their understanding of asteroid orbits. It also helps to educate the public. People can look up at the night sky and marvel at its wonder. They can gain a perspective on life as they watch the asteroid fly safely by.