Astronomers have identified a potential asteroid threat, 2024 YR4, which has an estimated 1.3% chance of hitting Earth on December 22, 2032. The asteroid, discovered just two days after a close approach to our planet, is currently speeding away from Earth and becoming increasingly faint.
According to experts, the asteroid’s size range is between 130 feet and 330 feet in length, which poses a significant threat to cities. However, Dr. David Rankin, a comet and asteroid spotter at the University of Arizona, downplays the risk, stating that the chances of an impact are not something to “lose sleep over.”
The odds of an impact diminish over time as astronomers gather more data on the object. The Torino Scale ranks 2024 YR4 at 3, indicating a close encounter with less than a decade away, but one that warrants attention from astronomers.
Future observations and tracking by the European Space Agency’s Near-Earth Object Coordination Centre will refine predictions and potentially rule out an impact. A more accurate estimate of the asteroid’s size can be made using radar during its next safe passage in December 2028.
While concerns may arise, experts emphasize that the chances of a hit are extremely low. The likelihood of an impact is not something to worry about at present.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/29/science/asteroid-2024-yr4-earth.html