A Close-Approach Apollo-Class Near-Earth Object
Author: L.A (Astrophyzix Science Communication )
Date: 14 January 2026
Abstract
This article provides a detailed overview of asteroid 242708 (2005 UK1), an Apollo-class near-Earth object that made a safe close approach to Earth on 12 January 2026. The article summarizes its discovery, orbital characteristics, size estimates, and monitoring status, providing context for near-Earth object research and planetary defense efforts.
Introduction
Asteroid 242708 (2005 UK1) is a well-tracked Apollo-class near-Earth asteroid first discovered on 24 October 2005 by the Mount Lemmon Survey in Arizona. Apollo-class asteroids have orbits that cross Earth's orbit, making them objects of interest for both scientific study and planetary defense monitoring.
Discovery and Classification
- Designation: 242708
- Provisional Name: 2005 UK1
- Discovery Date: October 24, 2005
- Discovery Site: Mount Lemmon Survey, Arizona
- Orbital Class: Apollo (Earth-crossing orbit)
- NEA Status: Near-Earth Asteroid
- PHA Classification: Potentially Hazardous Asteroid
Observed Close Approach
On 12 January 2026, asteroid 242708 (2005 UK1) passed safely at a nominal distance of approximately 12.36 million km (~0.08259 AU) from Earth. Although classified as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid due to its orbit, this approach posed no impact risk. Observations from NASA JPL and other observatories contributed to refining its orbital elements and size estimates, which range between 0.632 and 1.413 km in diameter.
Orbital Characteristics (As figure 1.)
242708 (2005 UK1) has an orbital period of approximately 3.94 years. Its orbit crosses Earth's orbit and is monitored regularly to assess any future close approaches. Continuous monitoring allows astronomers to predict potential hazards and study the dynamics of near-Earth objects.
Conclusion
The 12 January 2026 close approach of asteroid 242708 (2005 UK1) demonstrates the importance of monitoring near-Earth objects. Accurate tracking, orbital determination, and size estimation of such asteroids provide vital data for planetary defense and contribute to understanding the population of Apollo-class near-Earth objects.
References
Astrophyzix Science News. (2026, January). Asteroid 242708 (2005 UK1) close approach. Retrieved from https://www.astrophyzix.com/2026/01/asteroid-242708-2005-uk1-close-approach.html
NASA/JPL. (2026). Asteroid 242708 (2005 UK1) close approach data. Retrieved from https://theasteroidnews.com/242708-%282005UK1%29-Earth-Close-Approach-12-January-2026.html
🔰Number of citations and references: 18 (updated: 14/01/2026 at 19:51)
