NASA scientists are closely monitoring asteroid 2022 YS5, a space rock approximately 100 feet in diameter, as it makes a near-Earth flyby today, July 17, 2025. While the asteroid is passing within a relatively short distance in cosmic terms, experts confirm it poses no danger to the planet.
“The asteroid is traveling at an estimated speed of over 33,000 kilometers per hour, and though it will not enter Earth’s atmosphere, its proximity has drawn the attention of astronomers and space agencies around the world. Classified as a Near-Earth Object (NEO), 2022 YS5 is part of a broader category of celestial bodies whose orbits bring them close to our planet,” NASA said.
NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) has reassured the public that there is no risk of impact, emphasizing that such flybys occur frequently and are essential opportunities for scientific observation. These events help researchers refine asteroid tracking models and improve early warning systems.
Although this particular asteroid will pass at a safe distance, it underscores the ongoing efforts by space agencies to strengthen planetary defense mechanisms. NASA continues to expand its asteroid detection capabilities using ground-based telescopes and space missions, such as the NEO Surveyor, set to launch in the near future.
In recent years, global interest in planetary protection has grown, especially following the successful DART mission, which demonstrated the potential to alter an asteroid’s trajectory.
The flyby of 2022 YS5 is expected to provide valuable data to further understand the behavior and characteristics of similar objects. Scientists encourage public interest in such events, as awareness is key in supporting future space safety initiatives.
