By emma hynes
NASA has recently gone public with their observations of a near-Earth asteroid, which measures up to nearly 300 ft in length.
In the event that the asteroid does hit Earth, the high-velocity impact would likely result in some local damage.
But how likely is it that the asteroid will hit our planet? What actions are NASA taking, and is this even something to be concerned about? Here's what we know.
As of early February, NASA has stated that the probability of the asteroid actually hitting Earth is only around 2.3%.
Although this number is low, it is an increase from the January estimate, which was closer to 1.2%.
Currently, NASA has been utilizing the James Webb Telescope to monitor and observe the asteroid. This large space rock has been placed at the top of the watchlist.
NASA does have plans to attempt some interception techniques if the impact probability continues to rise.
In the past, NASA has developed the DART program, which deflect asteroids via kinetic impactor spacecrafts.
Given the 98% chance the asteroid will miss earth entirely, it is more than likely this asteroid will cause zero problems for us here on Earth.
In the event that the asteroid defies odds and makes its way to our home planet, the rock is not large enough to seriously threaten humanity. It is safe to say that, currently, this asteroid is not cause for panic.