High chances of asteroid hitting Earth, collision may cause massive destruction, says leading astrophysicist

When we hear a warning about an asteroid hitting Earth, it becomes a matter of concern as it could end up in causing massive damage on the planet. Well now, a leading astrophysicist from Queen's University Belfast in Northern Ireland has warned that the world should get ready for an asteroid strike, which is just a matter of time.

Alan Fitzsimmons has warned that in this particular case, an asteroid collision will happen, rather than if it will happen. A global event ‘Asteroid Day’ will take place on June 30 and Fitzsimmons was highlighting its threat.

On June 30, 1908, an asteroid caused destruction 800 square miles after it exploded over Tunguska in Siberia. Fitzsimmons warned that a similar unexpected strike in today’s world could destroy a major city. He also said that a larger asteroid could be more dangerous.

"It is important to know that scientists and engineers have made great strides in detecting Near-Earth Asteroids and understanding the threat posed by them. Over 1,800 potentially hazardous objects have been discovered so far, but there are many more waiting to be found," Fitzsimmons said in a statement released by Queen's University Belfast. 

"Astronomers find Near-Earth Asteroids every day and most are harmless. But it is still possible the next Tunguska would take us by surprise, and although we are much better at finding larger asteroids, that does us no good if we are not prepared to do something about them," he added. 

On June 30, other astronauts and experts will join Fitzsimmons for discussions and presentations to be be streamed live from Luxembourg.

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