NewsPotential Earth impact: NASA monitors asteroid 2024 YR4 risk

Potential Earth impact: NASA monitors asteroid 2024 YR4 risk

NASA scientists warn of a possible impact of asteroid 2024 YR4 with Earth. The chances of collision are currently 3.1%, reports the "Independent".

An asteroid might hit the Earth. There is a map of threatened points.
An asteroid might hit the Earth. There is a map of threatened points.
Images source: © X
Mateusz Domański

The risk of collision with asteroid 2024 YR4 has risen to 3.1%, causing concern among NASA scientists. Not long ago, the probability was 2.6%, notes the "Independent". The asteroid was discovered in 2024, and its potential impact on Earth is predicted for December 22, 2032.

Map of threatened areas

The "Independent" published a map showing where asteroid 2024 YR4 might strike. Poland is not in the danger zone.

The areas most at risk stretch from South America through Africa, the Middle East to India. Approximately 110 million people live in these regions.

NASA plans further observations of the asteroid using the James Webb Telescope in March 2025, reports the "Independent".

This could allow for a more accurate estimation of the collision probability. It is possible that the asteroid will be removed from the list of threats, as has been the case with other objects.

Observations and forecasts

Moly Wasser from NASA, quoted by the "Independent", emphasizes that further observations could change the risk assessment.

As more observations of the asteroid's orbit are obtained, the probability of impact will become better known, she adds.

Asteroid 2024 YR4, although concerning, might ultimately not pose a threat to Earth, but NASA and ESA scientists continuously monitor the situation to ensure the safety of our planet.

What if YR4 hits Earth? They showed the simulation (read more >>>):

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