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A Giant Rock Racing Around the Sun

USASaturday, October 25, 2025
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2025 SC79: A Speedy Space Rock

  • Size: As big as a skyscraper
  • Orbit: Completes a full trip around the sun in just 128 days
  • Path: One of only two known objects orbiting inside Venus's path, crossing Mercury's orbit

Current Status

The asteroid is currently behind the sun, making it invisible to telescopes for a few months.

Astronomical Significance

  • Purpose: Studying fast-moving asteroids to understand their origins and potential threats to Earth.
  • Technology: Powerful telescopes supported by NASA, designed to detect "planet killer" asteroids.
  • Previous Discovery: In 2021, the same team found another asteroid with an even faster orbit (133 days).

Why It Matters

Understanding these asteroids helps in protecting Earth from potential impacts and provides insights into the dynamics of our solar system.

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