Researchers have warned that if asteroid 2024 YR4 hits the moon in December 2032, it could eject fragments toward Earth, creating a spectacular meteor shower. The asteroid, estimated at 53-67 meters (174-220 feet) wide, poses a negligible risk of hitting Earth directly but still threatens the moon. Observations have shown that the likelihood of impacts on the moon has increased.
A study from a Canadian university simulated how such an impact would create a crater about 1 km wide, sending debris into Earth’s orbit, potentially endangering satellites and astronauts, though most fragments would burn up in the atmosphere. The study emphasizes the need for planetary defense measures beyond Earth.
NASA and other agencies have long tracked potentially hazardous asteroids. In 2022, NASA successfully tested asteroid deflection using the DART mission. The asteroid 2024 YR4 will not be observable until 2028, but NASA has since ruled out any change to the moon’s orbit.
Source link
