Trending Now - Massive Asteroid Set for Close Encounter With Earth Monday

WHO:

Live Science - Astronomers at the Mount Lemmon Observatory near Tucson, Arizona discovered the asteroid 2026 JH2.

Wired - The asteroid is compared in size to Chicago’s Cloud Gate.

WHAT:

Live Science - The asteroid 2026 JH2 is traveling at around 20,000 mph (32,000 km/h).

Live Science - 2026 JH2 is up to 115 feet (35 meters) across.

Live Science - The asteroid will pass Earth at an altitude of around 56,000 miles (91,000 kilometers).

Live Science - 2026 JH2 is expected to reach a peak brightness of around magnitude 11.5.

Live Science - There is zero chance that 2026 JH2 will impact Earth.

WHERE:

Live Science - The asteroid was discovered at the Mount Lemmon Observatory near Tucson, Arizona.

Live Science - The asteroid will fly over Earth, closer than some satellites.

WHEN:

Live Science - The asteroid will have its close encounter with Earth on May 18.

Live Science - The flyby is expected to occur around 6 p.m. EDT.

WHY:

Live Science - The asteroid circles the sun every 3.7 years on an elliptical orbit that takes it as far out as Jupiter.

HOW:

Live Science - The asteroid was verified by other observatories across the globe after its discovery.

Live Science - The Virtual Telescope Project will share a livestream of the flyby from a telescope in Manciano, Italy.

(UPDATED May 16, 2026 19:20 UTC)

Astronomers at the Mount Lemmon Observatory near Tucson, Arizona have discovered a new asteroid named 2026 JH2, which is comparable in size to Chicago’s Cloud Gate and measures up to 115 feet across. This asteroid is traveling at an impressive speed of around 20,000 miles per hour and will make a close approach to Earth on May 18, passing at an altitude of approximately 56,000 miles, with no chance of impacting our planet. For those interested in witnessing this event, the Virtual Telescope Project will provide a livestream of the flyby from a telescope in Manciano, Italy.