Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:55pm on 18 Dec 2025,Thursday Science
Ten asteroids will approach Earth between December 18-20, according to NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, though none poses impact threats. The closest, asteroid 2015 XX168, passes at 2.3 million kilometers on December 18, several times the Moon's distance. Sizes range from 7 meters (2025 XT4) to 160 meters (2025 XV), with speeds between 6-17 kilometers per second. Most have zero rarity scores, indicating common occurrences; only 2025 XV rates one due to larger size, not elevated risk. Scientists emphasize these flybys provide valuable research opportunities for studying asteroid behavior, refining orbital models, and improving planetary defense capabilities. Close approaches occur regularly, often weekly, with Earth safely monitored. (PC: Pinterest)
