2026-04-07, 07:30 PM
CNEOS predicts that the newly-discovered NEA, 2026 GD, will make a close approach on 2026-Apr-09 23:00±00:10 UT at a distance of 0.00168 AU moving with V Relative=12.66 km/sec, H=26.6 magnitude, diameter 13 m - 29 m and 'Rarity'=1. As of April 7, there is a 1 day observation arc, the Condition Code=7 and the Earth MOID=0.00052541 AU. The solution date was 2026-Apr-07 00:42:03 PDT. The initial reported observation was by MAPS, San Pedro de Atacama on 2026-04-06. This is the same group of observers that discovered comet C/2026 A1 (MAPS).
Using MPC's orbital elements for the epoch 2026 Apr 7 0000 UT, ST4.1.11.20 Visual Pro predicts that 2026 GD will reach a peak brightness of 14.8 magnitude on April 9 at 1500 EDT (1900 UT) at a distance of 311.8k km traveling through Lupus at ~400"/minute, but in daylight and below the horizon in Columbus, Ohio. Close approach is predicted (to the nearest hour) on 2026 Apr 9 at 1900 EDT (2300 UT) at 253.0k km when the NEA will be traveling through Corona Australis at 15.5 magnitude and 10.3"/second, but still in daylight and below the horizon in Columbus. This object will be best visible from the southern hemisphere.
Here's the Object Info dialog for 2026 GD:
The orbit for this NEA is still being refined. Observers should follow the directions in the "Important Threads" section for instruction on how to download the orbatal elements for the most accurate predictions.
Good hunting,
Phil S.
Using MPC's orbital elements for the epoch 2026 Apr 7 0000 UT, ST4.1.11.20 Visual Pro predicts that 2026 GD will reach a peak brightness of 14.8 magnitude on April 9 at 1500 EDT (1900 UT) at a distance of 311.8k km traveling through Lupus at ~400"/minute, but in daylight and below the horizon in Columbus, Ohio. Close approach is predicted (to the nearest hour) on 2026 Apr 9 at 1900 EDT (2300 UT) at 253.0k km when the NEA will be traveling through Corona Australis at 15.5 magnitude and 10.3"/second, but still in daylight and below the horizon in Columbus. This object will be best visible from the southern hemisphere.
Here's the Object Info dialog for 2026 GD:
The orbit for this NEA is still being refined. Observers should follow the directions in the "Important Threads" section for instruction on how to download the orbatal elements for the most accurate predictions.
Good hunting,
Phil S.