Astronomers Monitor Asteroid 2024 YR4 for Potential Earth Impact in 2032

Preview
Astronomers are currently keeping a close watch on the asteroid 2024 YR4 due to its potential to impact Earth in December 2032. As of now, the asteroid has a 1-in-83 chance of hitting Earth. This asteroid has been identified as a top impact threat by NASA, with a 1.2% chance of collision.
Preview
The European Space Agency (ESA) is actively monitoring 2024 YR4 and has stated that it has an almost 99% chance of safely passing Earth on December 22, 2032. Despite these high odds of a safe passage, the asteroid remains on the Risk List, which catalogues all objects with a non-zero impact probability.
Preview
NASA's next-generation impact monitoring algorithm, Sentry-II, is being used to better evaluate the impact probabilities of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs) like 2024 YR4. This advanced system helps in providing more accurate assessments and predictions regarding potential asteroid threats.
Preview
In addition to professional monitoring efforts, there are also programs encouraging public participation in asteroid detection. For instance, the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory has launched a new program that allows anyone to become an asteroid hunter. This initiative aims to leverage the power of crowdsourcing to enhance the detection and tracking of potentially hazardous asteroids.
Preview
Overall, while the odds of 2024 YR4 impacting Earth are relatively low, the continuous monitoring and advanced algorithms in place ensure that any potential threat is carefully evaluated and managed.
Preview