20 City-Killer Asteroids Lurking Near Venus, Slight Shift And They Could One Day Slam Into Earth
Scientists have found 20 large asteroids near Venus with erratic orbits that could one day collide with Earth, posing a potential risk to cities. But no immediate danger detected
The universe is brimming with mysteries, and among them are millions of asteroids hurtling through space. Imagine if one of these massive rocks were to collide with Earth, an entire city could be obliterated within minutes. This is not science fiction, but a conclusion drawn from recent astronomical research.
Scientists have identified 20 large asteroids orbiting near Venus that have the potential to strike Earth in the future. These asteroids have been ominously nicknamed 'city killers'. There are concerns that some of these space rocks might one day collide with our planet.
Researchers from São Paulo State University in Brazil have been studying these asteroids and discovered that they orbit close to Venus. Among them are 'Trojan' asteroids, which maintain stable positions either ahead of or behind the planet in its orbit. Additionally, there is an unusual 'quasi-moon' called Zoozve. A striking feature of these asteroids is their erratic orbits, that is, they do not follow a fixed path around any planet, making them difficult to track.
Scientists believe these asteroids originated from the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter and measure over 140 metres in diameter. A collision with any one of them could cause devastation on a city-wide scale.
Currently, these asteroids are far from Earth and do not present an immediate threat. However, Venus is just 40 million kilometres away from our planet. If the orbits of these asteroids were to shift slightly, Earth's gravity could pull them in, making it challenging to prevent a catastrophic impact.
Many of these asteroids follow unpredictable, zigzagging trajectories and only become visible when they approach Earth. Moreover, many remain hidden because the Sun's brightness obscures them from observation.
Valerio Carruba, the lead author of the study, stated, 'We should not underestimate the potential danger posed by these bodies, but it is also true that there is no immediate cause for alarm."
Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from geopolitics to diplomacy and global trends. Stay informed with the latest world news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated!
First Published:
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
12 hours ago
- News18
New study documents 452 bird species in Telangana
Hyderabad, Jul 27 (PTI) A newly published research paper by a Professor of Osmania University and a citizen-scientist has documented that there are 452 bird species across Telangana, including rare sightings and first records for India, such as the Spur-winged Lapwing. Published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa on July 26, the study, by Prof Chelmala Srinivasulu (Osmania University) and Sriram Reddy of Hyderabad Birding Pals, (a Non-Governmental Organisation, dedicated to promoting birdwatching across Telangana) offers critical insights into Telangana's bird diversity and is one of the most comprehensive avifaunal checklists ever compiled for the state, a release from Osmania University said. It also highlights the presence of globally threatened species like the critically endangered Indian Vulture and Lesser Florican, underscoring the region's importance for bird conservation, it said. 'Birds are excellent indicators of environmental health. Our work not only corrects outdated records but also showcases Telangana's hidden biodiversity rich areas – from wetlands to forests, from grasslands to urban lakes," said Prof Srinivasulu, a leading wildlife biologist at Osmania University. Sriram Reddy, co-author and citizen-scientist said this checklist is not just for scientists, but for every nature lover, student, and amateur birder. He invited people from all walks of life to take up birdwatching – not just as a hobby, but as a meaningful connection to natural heritage. The paper is the result of decades of field observations, historic record reviews, and community-contributed data, the release said. Prof Srinivasulu urged the citizens to appreciate and protect the birds around them. He said policymakers need to work in tandem with researchers and experts to prioritise habitat identification and conservation. 'Our bird diversity and population are declining due to many direct and indirect threats. It is imperative that we need to nurture a new generation of bird lovers," he added. Osmania University Vice-Chancellor Prof Kumar Molugaram said the university fraternity appreciates the outcome of this research. PTI VVK GDK VVK KH view comments First Published: July 27, 2025, 20:45 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
14 hours ago
- News18
7,000 Steps Daily Could Reduce Risk Of Heart Disease And Other Serious Health Issues: Study
According to a new study, walking 7,000 steps a day can significantly cut the risk of major health issues. A new study published in The Lancet Public Health has revealed a surprising and welcome shift in how we view daily physical activity. Contrary to the widely accepted belief that 10,000 steps a day is the gold standard to keep many diseases away, the research shows that walking only 7,000 steps daily can significantly reduce the risk of several major health issues. According to researchers, walking 7,000 steps daily can boost brainpower, while reducing risks of serious health issues like heart disease, cancer, dementia and depression. For many people, this new benchmark offers a more achievable and less intimidating path to better health and longevity. Regular walking has long been linked to various health benefits, but this study provides fresh insight into its impact. According to researchers, walking supports brain function by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation and stimulating the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones that help boost mood and relieve stress. At the same time, it plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health by helping to regulate blood pressure, lower bad cholesterol, and support healthy weight management. These combined effects make walking a powerful, low-effort tool to reduce the risks of stroke and heart disease. This means that for those unable to consistently reach the 10,000-step goal, there is no need for discouragement. Even small increases from 2,000 to 4,000 steps, for example, can lead to measurable health improvements over time. One of the most encouraging takeaways is that walking is easily integrated into everyday routines. Unlike structured workouts, which often require time, planning, or gym access, walking can be done anywhere – while commuting, running errands, or taking breaks at work. This flexibility makes walking appealing for older adults, individuals with demanding schedules, or those who are new to regular physical activity. It removes the pressure to work out in a conventional sense and instead encourages mindful movement throughout the day. Health experts are emphasising a shift in mindset: the goal isn't perfection, it's consistency. Whether you walk 4,000 steps or reach the 7,000 mark, every bit of movement contributes to improved health outcomes. This new understanding makes it easier to stay motivated, particularly for those who have found the 10,000-step goal unrealistic. It encourages people to focus on progress rather than perfection, an approach that's more sustainable in the long run. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
19 hours ago
- Time of India
Solar Eclipse 2025: When and where to watch the final eclipse of the year and why it is important
As the year moves forward, curiosity is building around the last solar eclipse of 2025. Like always, these celestial events attract attention from both scientists and skywatchers– and this one's no exception. From researchers to those who follow age-old beliefs, many are eager to know what to expect from the second and final solar eclipse of the year. Here's everything we know about it so far. Date and timing of the final solar eclipse The final solar eclipse of 2025 is set to take place on September 21. It will start late at night around 11:00 PM (IST) and continue into the early hours of September 22, ending at 3:24 AM (IST). This will be a partial solar eclipse, which means the Moon will cover only a part of the Sun– so the eclipse won't be total, but still a noteworthy event for skywatchers. Visibility of the eclipse Since this eclipse will occur during nighttime in some regions, it won't be visible everywhere– only areas experiencing daylight at that time will be able to see it. Because of this, the Sutak period won't be observed in places where the eclipse isn't visible. According to traditional beliefs, Sutak– a time when people avoid certain religious and household activities– is only followed if the eclipse can actually be seen from that location. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Stylish New Mobility Scooters Available for Seniors (Prices May Surprise You) Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Search Now Undo Where will the eclipse be seen? According to NASA, the partial solar eclipse on September 21, 2025, will be visible from parts of eastern Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, and regions over the South Pacific Ocean. There may also be limited visibility along the edge of the South Atlantic Ocean. The eclipse will not be visible from India, Europe, Africa, or the Americas. This visibility pattern has also been confirmed by platforms like TimeandDate and EarthSky, which report similar regions based on global eclipse tracking data. In areas where the eclipse is visible, the extent to which the Moon covers the Sun will vary depending on local timing and weather conditions. Second lunar eclipse also in September In addition to the solar eclipse, another major astronomical event is expected earlier in the same month. The second lunar eclipse of 2025 is set to occur on 7 September. What is a solar eclipse? A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow that blocks the Sun's light– either fully or partially. In the case of a partial solar eclipse, only a portion of the Sun is obscured by the Moon. This type of eclipse is visible only from certain parts of the world, depending on the viewer's location and the timing of the event.
