2014 HB177: A Small Asteroid with a Distant Future Encounter

2014 HB177 is a near-Earth asteroid, meaning its orbit brings it relatively close to Earth's path around the Sun. Discovered in April 2014, it's estimated to be a small asteroid, somewhere between the size of a school bus and even smaller, at roughly 0.004 to 0.019 kilometers in diameter.


While it's classified as a near-Earth object, 2014 HB177 isn't currently considered a threat. Scientists have been able to calculate its orbit for the foreseeable future, and based on current data, there's no chance of it impacting Earth.


Here's a closer look at 2014 HB177:

  • • Size:
     Estimated to be between 4 and 19 meters (0.004 to 0.019 kilometers) in diameter.
  • • Classification:
     Near-Earth Asteroid
  • • Orbit:
     Completes a trip around the Sun every 430 days (roughly 1.18 years)
  • • Threat to Earth:
     None known based on current calculations

However, there is one predicted close approach in the coming decades. In May 2034, 2014 HB177 is expected to zip past Earth at a distance of approximately 514,556 kilometers – still a very safe margin.


It's important to note that astronomy is constantly evolving, and our ability to track and understand near-Earth objects is improving all the time. While the current data suggests no danger from 2014 HB177, scientists will continue to monitor its trajectory for any updates.


Here's a quick summary:

  • • Small asteroid, comparable to a school bus or smaller
  • • Not a threat based on current calculations
  • • Predicted close approach in May 2034, but at a safe distance

For more information on 2014 HB177 and other near-Earth objects, you can visit NASA's asteroid database https://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/tools/sbdb_lookup.html.