NASA has warned of a potential “city killer” asteroid that could smash into the Moon instead of Earth, posing significant risks to space debris and satellite systems. The massive asteroid, 2024 YR4, was initially thought to pose an 1 in 450 chance of impact with our planet but now has a 4.3% chance of hitting the Moon by 2032.
The asteroid, roughly the size of a 10-story building, is currently too distant for detection but will come within observational range in 2028 due to Jupiter’s gravitational forces. If it hits the Moon, experts warn that it could unleash devastating effects akin to an atomic explosion, potentially triggering a meteor shower and endangering satellite systems.
The concern extends to debris from such a lunar impact reaching Earth’s atmosphere, posing a threat to numerous essential satellites. A single impact could blast significant amounts of debris into space, increasing the odds of a satellite collision by a thousand-fold.
NASA and experts emphasize that while the probability is still low, it’s not insignificant. Dr. Paul Wiegert warns that such an event could obliterate a space station or satellite, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and preparedness.
Source: https://www.irishstar.com/news/us-news/yr4-asteroid-nasa-space-moon-35470577