NASA scientists have raised the probability of asteroid 2024 YR4 crashing into the Moon, following new observations from the James Webb Space Telescope.
Initially believed to have a 3.8% chance of impact, the latest data suggests a 4.3% likelihood of collision. This discovery has prompted increased interest in the asteroid, which ranges from 130 to 300 feet in size.
Astronomers created a 3D model of the asteroid using the Gemini South telescope, revealing its unique hockey-puck-like shape and rapid rotation period of 20 minutes per cycle. While asteroid 2024 YR4 was once listed as a potential Earth impactor, NASA confirmed that it poses no threat to our planet. However, its trajectory still leads to a possible lunar collision.
NASA expects to conduct further observations in 2028 when the asteroid comes back into Earth’s vicinity. Scientists are optimistic that additional data will refine impact predictions and help prepare for any celestial consequences.
