An airplane-sized asteroid passed by Earth TODAY – here’s what you need to know!

On the morning of April 3rd, 2025, an asteroid named 2025 GB made a close pass by Earth, sparking some concern as it zoomed past our planet at a speed of 30,060 km/h. Measuring around 140 feet in diameter, the asteroid, roughly the size of a commercial airplane, came within 723,000 kilometers of Earth.
While this is considered a relatively close distance, the asteroid posed no threat to our planet. Still, this close encounter serves as an important reminder of the ongoing efforts to monitor and understand near-Earth objects (NEOs).

How close was it?
Asteroid 2025 GB’s closest approach to Earth occurred at 6:55 AM IST on April 3rd. While 723,000 kilometers may sound like a vast distance, it is just under twice the average distance between the Earth and the Moon. The asteroid’s speed of 30,060 km/h, though impressive, was not enough to make it a danger to Earth. To put it in perspective, it was traveling about 25 times faster than the speed of sound.
Although the asteroid’s size and proximity were noteworthy, it did not qualify as a “potentially hazardous asteroid,” a classification used for objects that are over 460 feet in diameter and come within 7.5 million kilometers of Earth.
The role of NASA and ongoing monitoring

NASA and other space agencies continuously monitor near-Earth objects to assess any potential risks. Through its Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), NASA uses a network of telescopes, observatories, and radar systems to track the paths of asteroids like 2025 GB. This enables them to predict the potential for future encounters and take action if necessary.
In the case of 2025 GB, NASA had already been tracking its trajectory well in advance, ensuring that there was no immediate risk to Earth. This is a crucial part of planetary defense efforts, as early detection is key in identifying any threats that could pose a danger to our planet.

What are the potential risks of smaller asteroids?
While 2025 GB was not large enough to cause global harm, smaller asteroids still present a risk. Objects of this size could cause significant localized damage if they were to enter Earth’s atmosphere.
The good news is that objects of this size are easier to track and predict, and as technology improves, the ability to spot and monitor smaller asteroids continues to get better. However, even smaller asteroids, while unlikely to cause widespread damage, still need to be monitored.