A spectacular cosmic encounter is on the horizon as asteroid 2025 FA22 prepares to make a close pass by Earth on September 18, 2025. The asteroid, which is being carefully tracked by NASA’s Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), has already stirred global attention because of its sheer size, potential impact significance, and proximity. Discovered earlier this year by the Pan-STARRS 2 Survey in Hawaii, FA22 is estimated to measure between 120 and 280 meters across, making it one of the more notable near-Earth objects of 2025.To put this into perspective, Delhi’s historic Qutub Minar stands at 73 meters. Even at its smallest estimate, FA22 is nearly twice the height of the monument. At its upper estimate, the asteroid would dwarf the minaret nearly four times, making it an extraordinary cosmic visitor and a spectacular object for astronomers and skywatchers to observe.
Asteroid 2025 FA22 bigger than Delhi’s Qutub Minar set to close flyby: Date, speed and distance
The Qutub Minar, one of India’s most iconic landmarks, reaches a height of 73 meters. By comparison, FA22’s dimensions make it an enormous space rock. At its lower end, the asteroid doubles the minaret’s height, and at its largest estimate, it surpasses it fourfold. This size makes FA22 one of the most intriguing near-Earth objects of the year.Such comparisons help illustrate just how massive asteroids can be, and why even those that do not pose a threat demand attention from the scientific community.NASA’s observations confirm that FA22 follows a moderately elongated, slightly tilted orbit around the Sun, completing one revolution approximately every 1.85 years. When it makes its closest approach on September 18, 2025, the asteroid will pass Earth at a distance of around 842,000 kilometers—more than twice the lunar distance.Despite being a safe distance away, the encounter is considered close in astronomical terms. Traveling at nearly 24,127 miles per hour, FA22 will be a fleeting but valuable opportunity for scientists and amateur astronomers to study it in detail.
Will asteroid 2025 FA22 hit earth? NASA explains the risk
The size and orbit of FA22 initially raised curiosity about its potential danger. NASA classifies objects larger than 85 meters that pass within 7.4 million kilometers of Earth as potentially hazardous asteroids. By this definition, FA22 falls into the category.However, detailed tracking and risk assessments confirm that FA22 poses no collision threat. Early evaluations gave it a low Torino Scale rating, but further observations quickly ruled out any risk. Its next projected encounter—more than a century away—will also remain safely beyond the Moon’s orbit.
Why NASA and ISRO track even safe asteroids like FA22
Even though asteroid 2025 FA22 will not collide with Earth, scientists continue to monitor it closely. The reason lies in the unpredictable nature of asteroid orbits. Small changes in trajectory, caused by gravitational interactions or solar radiation pressure, can significantly alter paths over long timescales.By tracking FA22 with radar and advanced telescopes, scientists refine orbital models and learn more about its composition. Such studies also improve planetary defense strategies, ensuring humanity remains prepared for any future asteroid threats.
From FA22 to Apophis: Why ISRO’s asteroid studies are crucial for Earth’s safety
India is playing a growing role in asteroid research. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has outlined plans to expand India’s capabilities in studying near-Earth objects. One major target is Apophis, an asteroid expected to pass very close to Earth in 2029.ISRO aims to collaborate with NASA, ESA, and JAXA on asteroid missions, some of which may even involve landing spacecraft on these celestial bodies. Observations of FA22 offer valuable groundwork for India’s expanding role in global asteroid research.Asteroids of this scale rarely pass near Earth only once or twice every decade making FA22’s flyby an invaluable scientific opportunity. Each close encounter allows researchers to sharpen predictive models, understand asteroid structures, and refine strategies for future impact prevention.While FA22 poses no threat, its presence serves as a reminder that space is full of hidden dangers. Studying it closely ensures that scientists remain vigilant, ready to respond to more dangerous objects that may cross Earth’s path in the future.Also Read | Solar eclipse 2025: Will ‘surya grahan’ be on September 20, 21, or 23? Timings, visibility and everything you need to know
