AN ASTEROID, which has been nicknamed "The Rock", after Dwayne Johnson will make its closest pass to Earth in 400 years today (April 19).

The asteriod, is estimated to be between 650 meters and 1.4 kilometers in length, and has been named after the pro-wrestler due to its massive 

It will make its closest approach to Earth in 400 years at around 1.34pm BST on April 19, at a distance of 1.1 million miles.

The asteroid will not come this close to Earth again for at least the next 500 years.

The rock - offically called 2014 JO25) was first discovered by Astronomers three years ago, when it was observed by the Catalina Sky Survey in Arizona.

Little is known about its physical properties, but NASA claims its surface is about twice as reflective as that of the moon, meaning it will be visible from Earth.

Small asteroids pass within this distance of Earth several times each week, but this upcoming close approach is the closest by any known asteroid of this size, or larger, in 13 years.

NASA said it is an outstanding opportunity for astronomers and amateur stargazers.

The asteroid should be visible with a small optical telescope for one or two nights before it moves out of range.