The James Webb telescope has focused its attention on an oddball space rock lurking between Jupiter and Neptune. The unusual "centaur," named 2060 Chiron, has features of both comets and asteroids.

The vast expanse of space often feels like a puzzle, with celestial objects serving as pieces that hold clues to the universe’s origins. Among these, Chiron, a rare hybrid between an asteroid and a comet,

While this is considered a “close approach” by interstellar standards — NASA defines near-Earth objects (NEOs) as those that come within 4.6 million miles — we’re not about to get some cosmic coal shoved down our stockings so to speak.

XN1, nicknamed the "Christmas Eve asteroid," will pass Earth at a speed of 14,743 mph on December 24, reaching its closest point at 02:56 am GMT.

As people prepare for Christmas Eve celebrations, the skies are preparing for their own dramatic spectacle. Tonight, a massive asteroid will make a close approach to Earth, providing both a moment of wonder and an opportunity for scientists to learn more about these celestial visitors.