2012 XE54

Asteroid 2012 XE54 was discovered by astronomers just two days ago.  At 120 feet long, if it collided with Earth the damage caused could be comparable to the devastation caused by the Tunguska event of 1904.  Today, 2012 XE54 flew past Earth at a distance of only 140,000 miles-- a close shave in cosmic terms.  It could come even closer in future passes.

This is simply the latest in a string of cases this year that make the case for planetary defense against possible asteroid or comet strikes.  Hopefully, it won't take a disaster to get world leaders to act.