Astronomers, utilizing the Gemini South telescope in Chile, have reconstructed a 3D model of the city-killer asteroid 2024 YR4.
This peculiar space object has sparked significant interest due to its unconventional hockey-puck shape and potential to collide with the Moon.
Discovered on December 27, 2024, the asteroid measures approximately 30–65 meters in diameter and boasts a rapid rotation period of just 20 minutes. Initial fears of an Earth impact in 2032 have been alleviated through extensive observation, although there remains a slight chance of it striking the Moon instead.
Originating from the asteroid belt, 2024 YR4 was likely nudged into its near-Earth orbit by Jupiter’s gravitational influence. The asteroid’s atypical shape has intrigued scientists, as most asteroids tend to resemble potatoes or toy tops rather than flat disks.
Lead researcher Bolin remarked, “We are a bit surprised about its origin in the central main asteroid belt, which is a location in the asteroid belt that we did not think many Earth-crossing asteroids could originate from.”
While Earth is safe for now, the findings emphasize the ongoing importance of tracking near-Earth objects and advancing planetary defense strategies.
