Many planetary scientists and space agencies have recently realized that an asteroid rapidly approaching Earth could pose a significant threat. It has been stated that this massive rock should be closely monitored for years, and the preparations for it have become increasingly important. Here’s the information shared by NASA…
The likelihood of Asteroid 2024 YR4 colliding with Earth is increasing
NASA is closely monitoring Asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a chance of colliding with Earth in 2032. This asteroid has been under constant observation since it was first discovered in December 2024, and scientists continue to calculate the collision probability.
Initially, the possibility of a collision was estimated at a low ratio of 1/83, but with new data, this likelihood is steadily increasing. The current probability of a collision has risen to 1/32, equating to a risk of approximately 3.1%. Calculations from NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) show that this risk is becoming more serious.
Asteroid 2024 YR4 is notable for its size, ranging from 40 to 90 meters in width. If it were to collide with Earth, it could create an impact similar to the 1908 Tunguska event. However, the asteroid’s properties could influence the outcome of the collision.
If it is a stony asteroid, it could break apart in the atmosphere, but if it has a metallic structure, it could crash into the Earth with full force, creating a massive explosion. Scientists are currently hoping to analyze the asteroid’s composition using the James Webb Space Telescope.
In April 2025, the asteroid will pass behind the Sun and will not be observable until 2028. This makes the final calculations by astronomers a critical turning point. If the risk remains high, NASA and other space agencies will work on strategies to change the asteroid’s trajectory.
