Written by: Astrophyzix Science News on 20/01/2026
Asteroid 2002 LX Overview
Asteroid 2002 LX is a near-Earth object belonging to the Apollo group of asteroids, meaning its orbit crosses Earth’s path around the Sun. It was discovered in 2002 and has been observed regularly since then, allowing astronomers to build a well-defined orbital model. Because its orbit brings it relatively close to Earth on occasion, it is classified as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid, a technical designation based on proximity rather than any imminent danger.
Physical Characteristics
Estimates suggest that asteroid 2002 LX has a diameter of roughly 150 to 340 meters. Objects of this size are common within the near-Earth asteroid population and are typically composed of rocky material. While not among the largest known asteroids, it is large enough to be of scientific interest, particularly for studies of asteroid dynamics and composition.
Orbital Properties
Asteroid 2002 LX completes one orbit around the Sun approximately every four years. Its orbit is elliptical, carrying it from the inner solar system to regions beyond Earth’s orbit. Decades of observations have refined its orbital parameters, giving scientists high confidence in predictions of its future positions, including close approaches to Earth.
2026 Close Approach to Earth
On 27 January 2026, asteroid 2002 LX will make a close but safe pass by Earth. At its closest point, it will be approximately 9.85 million kilometers away, which is about 25 times the average distance between Earth and the Moon. In astronomical terms this qualifies as a close approach, but it is still an enormous distance that poses no threat to our planet.
Risk Assessment
There is no risk of impact associated with the 2026 flyby of asteroid 2002 LX. Its trajectory has been calculated with high precision, and current models show no possibility of collision during this encounter. The potentially hazardous label reflects long-term orbital characteristics rather than any specific danger during this pass.
Scientific Importance of the Flyby
Close approaches like this one provide valuable opportunities for astronomers to improve orbital accuracy and gather additional observational data. During favorable flybys, asteroids can be studied using optical telescopes and, in some cases, radar observations, helping scientists better understand their size, shape, rotation, and surface properties.
How Asteroids Like 2002 LX Are Tracked
Near-Earth asteroids are discovered by wide-field survey telescopes that scan the sky for moving objects. Once identified, repeated observations allow astronomers to refine their orbits over time. Asteroid 2002 LX benefits from a long observation history, which significantly reduces uncertainties in its predicted future path.
Why Close Approaches Matter
Even when an asteroid passes millions of kilometers away, each close approach helps improve planetary defense strategies. Tracking and modeling these encounters increases confidence in impact prediction systems and contributes to our understanding of how near-Earth asteroids evolve over time.
Summary
Asteroid 2002 LX will pass safely by Earth in January 2026 at a distance of nearly ten million kilometers. While it is classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid due to its orbit, there is no danger associated with this encounter. Instead, the flyby serves as another example of how well-tracked and understood our near-Earth environment has become.
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