Asteroid 2024 YR4's Potential Lunar Impact in 2032 Under Close Observation
Asteroid 2024 YR4, initially considered a potential threat to Earth, now has a 4.3% chance of impacting the Moon on December 22, 2032, with no expected effects on Earth's safety.
Asteroid 2024 YR4, discovered on December 27, 2024, by the ATLAS telescope in Chile, was initially thought to pose a risk to Earth. Subsequent observations have ruled out any significant threat to our planet. However, refined data from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope indicates a 4.3% probability of the asteroid impacting the Moon on December 22, 2032.
Measuring approximately 53 to 67 meters in diameter, 2024 YR4 is comparable in size to a 15-story building. Despite the potential lunar impact, NASA emphasizes that such an event would not alter the Moon's orbit or pose any danger to Earth.
The asteroid is currently too distant for further observation. Scientists plan to resume monitoring in 2028 when 2024 YR4 returns to a position more favorable for study.