A newly discovered asteroid named 2017 AG13 will make a very close approach to our planet on January 9, 2017. This asteroid belongs to Aten group of asteroids.

2017 AG13 has an estimated size between 11 and 34 m (36 and 111 feet). It will flyby our planet at 12:47 UTC on January 9 at a distance of 0.53 LD (203 520 km / 126 461 miles). Its relative velocity is 15.7 km/s.

It was first observed at Catalina Sky Survey on January 7, 2017. Its next close approach to Earth is expected on December 28, 2017.

[ Ephemeris | Orbit Diagram | Orbital Elements | Physical Parameters | Close-Approach Data ]

As of January 5, 2017, there are 15 548 known near-Earth objects. 15 442 are near-Earth asteroids.

Of the total number of NEOs, 1 125 belong to Aten group of asteroids. The group is named after 2062 Aten, the first of its kind discovered by American astronomer Eleanor Helin at Palomar Observatory on January 7, 1976.

Featured image: Asteroid 2017 AG13 - geocentric flyby diagram by Minor Planet Center. Annotation: TW