MALOLOS CITY—An asteroid measuring 45 meters in diameter will hover within uncomfortable proximity from Earth on the early hours of February 16, Filipino astronomers said.
Dr. Custer Deocaris, a professor of astrobiology at Rizal Technological University (RTU), said 2012 DA14 asteroid will be hovering 22,000 kilometers from the Earth on Saturday.
“This is the closest asteroid fly-by in recorded history,” said Deocaris noting that said distance from the Earth is even closer than that of satellites in geostationary orbits.
He said that depending on sky condition, 2012 DA14 asteroid might be barely visible at around 3:30 a.m.on Satuday.
However, he said that residents of mega cities, like Manila, might not be able to enjoy the rare view due to light pollution and smog.
Deocaris added that despite its proximity, 2012 DA14 will not be hitting Earth during this pass.
He also said that the this intimate encounter with asteroid 2012 DA14 comes close to the National Astronomy Week (NAW) celebration on Feb. 17-23, 2013.
“We need to raise awareness on such breath-taking issues in astronomy. Astronomy plays a crucial role in inspiring young people. It works as tool to bringing our youth to science” said Deocaris, a DOST Balik-Scientist and a professor of astrobiology at RTU, the only state university in the country that offers degree programs in astronomy.
For his part, Christopher Louie Lu, an officer of the Astronomical League of the Philippines (ALP) said that 2012 DA14 asteroid pass-by is only one of many astronomical events to watch this year.
He said, “this is just one of the many deep-space visitors, including comets PANSTARR in early March, and ISON on late November, that will be discussed during the events in RTU and Manila Planetarium.”
Jointly organized by the ALP and RTU, Filipino astronomers and planetary scientists will also discuss the future of the Philippine Space Agency after the historic launching of the space movement last December.
“The public is enjoined to share the excitement and to be part of NAW celebration which will be held at RTU and National Museum Planetarium” Lu said.
