Scientists say they are sure there is no chance of the 150ft (45.7m) wide space rock hitting the planet.

But there is a remote possibility that it could collide with one of more than 100 telecommunication and weather satellites in fixed orbits above the Earth.

The asteroid, 2012 DA14, has been closely tracked since its discovery a year ago.

It is predicted to reach its nearest point to the Earth at around 7.30pm UK time on Friday.