Huge asteroid 1KM wide expected to pass Earth this week
Last updated 17th Jan 2022
Nasa has confirmed a giant asteroid they’ve been tracking, will pass by our planet on Tuesday 18th January.
The asteroid, named ‘(7482) 1994 PC1’ measures more than a kilometre in width, at 1,052m (3,451ft). To give you some perspective that’s taller than the world's tallest building Burj Khalifi in Dubai, which is 830m (2,723ft) high.
NASA's Asteroid Watch Twitter account assured its followers that the asteroid does not pose a threat to Earth.
1.2 million miles away from Earth, the asteroid will be passing about 5 times the moon's distance from Earth, at 43,754 miles per hour.
Astronomers believe this is the closest an asteroid will get to Earth for the next 200 years.
Robert McNaught first discovered asteroid (7482) 1994 PC1 at the Siding Spring Observatory in Australia on August 9, 1994.
It’s predicted to still be visible for any budding star gazers, with the help of a telescope.
How to see the asteroid:
SkyEarth recommends that star-gazers attach a camera to their telescope and set it to take exposures every 30 to 45 seconds.
It will appear as a point of light, like a star. Point the camera and telescope at a reference star or object in the trajectory of the asteroid.
For more information, visit EarthSky.org
Check out some of NI's top stargazing spots 👇
Darvagh Forest, Cookstown
Davagh Forest Park is the first place in Northern Ireland to be accredited as an IDA International Dark Sky Park. It is one of only 85 places around the globe to hold this distinction.
Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge site is classified as one of the best places in Northern Ireland for stargazing. Periodically Carrick-a-Rede hosts special star gazing evenings for astronomy fans.
The entire The Antrim coast road offers points where the aurora sometimes makes an impactful show at night.
Mourne Mountains, Newcastle
There's no need to worry about finding a decent spot for your car or struggling with crowds to see the stars. The Mournes offer miles and miles of stunning scenery, hiking trails and nocturnal skies.
This is truly the perfect spot, void of any light pollution, so pitch up a tent and fall asleep staring at the twinkling sky above.
Oxford Island, Craigavon
Nestled on the banks of Lough Neagh sits Oxford Island! Fun fact: the area has hosted BBC Stargazing Live and has been named a top Dark Sky Discovery Site.
Delamont Country Park, Downpatrick
Another tranquil spot, this time situated on the shores of Strangford Lough.
This beautiful 200-acre park hosts monthly events here with the Irish Astro Association. These sessions cater for everyone no matter their experience, and all ages are welcome.
Divis Mountain, Belfast
The closest stargazing spot to Belfast has to be Divis Mountain, that towers over the city 478m high. The views overlooking the capital city are spectacular but cast your eyes to the skies and you'll still have plenty to see.
Th elevation is so high here, towards the top of the mountain sees very little light pollution from the city below.
Benone Beach, Limavady
Stretching from Lough Foyle and Magilligan Point to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, enjoy seven miles of golden sands and unparalleled views across to Donegal. There's something so special gazing at the night sky with the sound of waves in the distance.
Read more:
11 family-friendly walks and parks across Northern Ireland
8 FREE things to see and do in Belfast this January
15 magical places to camp under the stars in Northern Ireland