it was closest (closer than this year's 27th August) from the Earth on some day in 2003 August (just somedays before I flew for Canada). On that day, I was one of the handful of people who could watch it through telescope at Balmiki Bidyapith (I managed it though they actually did not open it for public), and also through bar eyes. It appeared slightly larger than cricket ball through naked eyes that day. thanks for reminding, i will again try to observe it this year.