Asteroid 2024 YR4 poses potential threat to Earth in seven years, experts assess risks
An asteroid discovered recently, named 2024 YR4, poses a 2 percent risk of colliding with Earth by 2032. While the chances of this happening are low, scientists are diligently monitoring this mysterious rock to ascertain further details. This monitoring process may soon involve the launch of the most advanced observatory to ever venture into space.
Although there is limited information available about 2024 YR4, estimates suggest that the asteroid measures somewhere between 40 to 90 meters across. Dr. Paul Chodas, the manager of NASA’s Centre for Near-Earth Object Studies in Pasadena, California, likened its size to that of a large building. However, this pales in comparison to the colossal asteroid that wiped out dinosaurs around 66 million years ago. That asteroid was around 10 kilometers in diameter, marking the last major asteroid impact our planet has experienced.
It’s crucial to gather as much data as possible about 2024 YR4 since even smaller asteroids can cause significant regional destruction if they are on a course for Earth. Scientists are racing against time to study this asteroid before it disappears from view in April. One approach they plan to take is directing the James Webb Space Telescope towards 2024 YR4 to ascertain its size and trajectory.
The discovery of 2024 YR4 dates back to December 27 when it was first spotted by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) telescope in Rio Hurtado, Chile. This telescope is part of NASA’s asteroid detection programs, designed to survey the skies for near-Earth asteroids. Despite numerous observations utilizing various telescopes, the estimate of the asteroid’s size has remained relatively consistent. This is because scientists can only gauge the asteroid’s dimensions through the amount of sunlight it reflects.
The James Webb Space Telescope, set to initiate observations of 2024 YR4 in early March, will change the game. By capturing infrared light emitted by the asteroid, the telescope will provide a more precise estimate of its size. The new approach, stemming from a Nature study published in December, will offer researchers critical insights.
Astrophysicists are working tirelessly to track and understand the potential threat this asteroid poses. By acquiring more data and tweaking the asteroid’s trajectory, the risk of a direct collision might be diminished. The critical window of observation before the asteroid leaves the Earth’s view in April underscores the urgency of studying 2024 YR4. The community is hopeful that with advanced technology and concerted efforts, any potential danger from this asteroid can be expertly mitigated.