FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
The asteroid known as 2024 YR4, a rocky body the size of a building that initially appeared to be on a collision course with Earth, has now passed out of telescopes' field of view as it continues its orbit around the Sun. However, even though it is out of sight, it remains in the sights of scientists.
Discovered in late 2024, this asteroid initially looked like it could hit Earth on December 22, 2032. The chances of such a collision changed with each new observation, peaking at 3.1% in February, a probability that made it the most dangerous asteroid ever recorded.
Observations from ground-based and space-based telescopes helped astronomers more precisely determine its size and orbit. Thanks to improved measurements, researchers were finally able to rule out any collision with Earth.
According to NASA, the latest observations conducted in early June, shortly before 2024 YR4 disappeared from view, have increased the accuracy of predictions for its position in 2032 by almost 20%.
But this data shows that, even if the Earth avoids a direct collision, there is a possibility that the asteroid could hit the Moon in late 2032. Such an event would be rare and spectacular for humanity, but such an impact could scatter fine lunar material that could potentially reach Earth.
Although our planet would not be in serious danger from such a collision, any astronauts or infrastructure on the Moon's surface at the time could be at risk, as could several important satellites orbiting Earth that support navigation, communications, and other vital services.
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