"Scientists in New Mexico Monitor Near-Earth Asteroids"
Four near-Earth asteroids are passing by our planet this week, with two more expected on Sunday. The New Mexico-based Magdalena Ridge Observatory is part of the network monitoring these asteroids, which range in size from 26 feet to 84 feet. NASA's Planetary Defense office tracks these objects to ensure they do not pose a threat to Earth and recently tested plans to deflect larger incoming asteroids. The observatory's involvement highlights the technological advancements in telescopes and the dedicated efforts of scientists to detect and monitor these objects early.