Asteroid Flyby Quiz

What makes the asteroid 2012 DA14's approach to Earth significant?

• It is the largest asteroid to ever pass by Earth.

• It is the closest approach of an asteroid of its size since regular sky surveys began.

• It is the first asteroid to be tracked by NASA.

• It is the fastest asteroid to pass by Earth.

What is the estimated frequency of an asteroid like 2012 DA14 striking Earth?

• Every 40 years

• Every 100 years

• Every 500 years

• Every 1200 years

What was the composition of the asteroid that created the Meteor Crater in Arizona?

• Iron

• Stone

• Ice

• Metal

What is the main challenge in observing 2012 DA14 with a telescope?

• Its small size

• Its high speed across the sky

• Its low brightness

• Its unpredictable orbit

What will NASA's Goldstone radar help determine about 2012 DA14?

• Its exact color

• Its origin in the solar system

• Its potential to impact Earth

• Its physical characteristics and orbit