Close Approach of 2024 EN

[PMSchu]

CNEOS predicts that the newly discovered NEO 2024 EN will make a close approach on 2024-Mar-18 18:34±00:02 UT at 0.00994 AU distance moving at V Relative 11.97 km/sec, H=24.5 magnitude, diameter 34 m - 75 m and 'Rarity'=1. This object has a 10 day observation arc, Condition Code=7 and Earth MOID=1.21678E-7 AU. The orbit solution date was 2024-Mar-13 05:47:56 PDT. This Earth MOID indicates a possible future collision with earth, but CNEOS doesn't predict another approach this close for the next 130 years, so no worries. This is your last chance to see this object before it hits us  .

Using orbital elements downloaded from the MPC for the epoch 2024 March 13 0000 UT, ST4v predicts that 2024 EN will make the close approach (to the nearest hour) on 2024 March 18 1500 EDT at 1489.8 k km distance traveling through Ophiuchus at 17.2 magnitude and ~100"/min, but in daylight and below the horizon from Colombus, Ohio. The maximum brightness of 16.6 magnitude is predicted to occur around 2024 March 17 1100-1900 EDT when the NEO is moving through Libra at 77"/min, again in daylight and below the horizon in Columbus, Ohio.

Here's the Object Info for this NEO:     

This looks like a good opportunity for observers Down Under.

Good hunting,

Phil S.

[PMSchu]

CNEOS has updated the orbit for 2024 EN. The close approach is now predicted on 2024-Mar-18 18:34±00:01 UT and the distance is 0.00993 AU. The Earth MOID of 8.85409E-8 AU is the smallest that I've ever seen. I don't know how the close approach will affect the orbit. It could increase the MOID. CNEOS' solution date was 2024-Mar-14 06:24:07 PDT.

Here's the updated Object Info dialog for 2024 Mar 14:     

Good hunting,

Phil S.