tech
April 7, 2026
Chilean Observatory Discovers 11,000 Previously Unknown Asteroids: Here's How Much Danger the Earth is In
The new Chilean observatory "Vera Rubin" has discovered more than 11,000 previously unknown asteroids, while simultaneously more accurately measuring tens of thousands of already known objects in the Solar System.
TL;DR
- The Vera Rubin Observatory in Chile has discovered over 11,000 new asteroids.
- It has also more accurately measured tens of thousands of known Solar System objects.
- Discoveries include 33 near-Earth asteroids and 380 objects beyond Neptune.
- Scientists state that none of the newly discovered asteroids pose a threat to Earth.
- The observatory uses an 8.4-meter telescope and the largest digital camera ever made for astronomy.
- Over its 10-year research project, it is expected to discover millions of new objects.
- The project aims to improve tracking of potentially dangerous asteroids and enhance planetary defense.
- It will also contribute to a better understanding of the Solar System's formation.