NASA and ESA are tracking a newly discovered asteroid, 2024 YR4, which has a slight chance of colliding with Earth in 2032. While the risk remains low at 2%, scientists are using advanced telescopes to monitor its trajectory and refine impact probability calculations.
A newly discovered asteroid, 2024 YR4, has sparked some concern due to a slight increase in the probability of it colliding with Earth in 2032. Initial calculations by NASA and the European Space Agency placed the odds at just over 1%, but this has risen to roughly 2% as scientists refine their understanding of the asteroid's trajectory. Despite this increase, experts emphasize that the risk of impact remains extremely low at 2%.
NASA's Webb Space Telescope will observe the asteroid in March before it disappears from view, providing crucial data for more precise calculations. Subsequent observations are expected in 2028 when the asteroid returns to view.\The asteroid, estimated to be between 130 and 300 feet (40 and 90 meters) in diameter, was discovered in December by a telescope in Chile. Asteroids are remnants from the early formation of the solar system, and while most reside in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, some are ejected and can travel throughout the solar system. Scientists are closely monitoring 2024 YR4's path as it orbits the sun, using advanced telescopes to track its movements and predict its future trajectory.\NASA and ESA are collaborating on this effort, using sophisticated modeling techniques to analyze the asteroid's orbit and calculate the probability of an impact. The outcome of these calculations will inform future strategies, including potential deflection missions if necessary. In 2021, NASA successfully demonstrated an asteroid deflection technique with its Dart spacecraft, altering the trajectory of a harmless asteroid during a planetary defense test. This experience provides valuable insights for future missions aimed at protecting Earth from potential asteroid threats. Despite the initial concern surrounding 2024 YR4, scientists remain optimistic that further observations will lead to a more definitive understanding of its trajectory and alleviate any fears of a collision
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