Earth Safe For Now, But Asteroid 2024 YR4 May Hit The Moon In 2032, Warns NASA
Measuring between 53 and 67 meters in diameter—about the size of a 10-storey building—the asteroid was classified as an Apollo-type and raised fears that it could impact Earth
It was late 2024 when astronomers around the world were abuzz with concern over a newly discovered asteroid—designated 2024 YR4—which had appeared on NASA's radar.
Measuring between 53 and 67 meters in diameter—about the size of a 10-storey building—the asteroid was quickly classified as an Apollo-type, a group known for their Earth-crossing orbits. Early calculations suggested a slim but real possibility that the space rock could impact Earth, prompting widespread attention and careful monitoring by NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.
However, as 2025 unfolded, the asteroid slipped out of view for Earth-based telescopes, its orbit taking it too far to be observed directly. Fortunately, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) managed to capture one final glimpse of 2024 YR4 before it vanished behind the glare of the Sun. These observations proved crucial: with the new data, NASA scientists refined the asteroid's predicted path, narrowing down its location for December 22, 2032, with nearly 20 per cent greater accuracy.
However, the updated calculations have brought about a surprising twist. While the risk to Earth had been ruled out, the odds of 2024 YR4 striking the Moon in 2032 ticked up slightly—from 3.8 per cent to 4.3 per cent, posing the question: What would happen if the asteroid did hit the Moon? Would it affect the Moon's orbit, or pose any danger to Earth?
In an interview with Space.com, astronomer Pawan Kumar, a former researcher at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in Bengaluru, sought to reassure the public, explaining that even if the asteroid were to collide with the Moon, it would not be a cause for concern. The Moon's orbit would remain unchanged, and any debris ejected by the impact would likely burn up harmlessly in Earth's atmosphere if it ever made its way toward us, he added.
The JWST's observations also set a record: at roughly 60 meters across, 2024 YR4 became the smallest object ever targeted by the powerful space telescope. This achievement underscored the growing capabilities of modern astronomy to track even modestly sized objects across the vastness of space.
Today, astronomers continue to keep a close watch on 2024 YR4, refining their models and preparing for any surprises. While the asteroid's journey may one day end with a dramatic impact on the Moon, Earth remains safe—for now.
First Published:
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Hindu
7 minutes ago
- The Hindu
Amala Medical College launches AI system for drug safety
Amala Medical College and Research Centre, Thrissur, has launched an AI-powered initiative in collaboration with Bengaluru-based technology firm aiming at transforming pharmacological safety protocols and antibiotic stewardship in the hospital. The event marked the unveiling of 'SafeRx', an advanced AI system designed to support clinicians in making safer and informed decisions while prescribing medicines. Dr. V.K. Pratheesh, academic coordinator at Amala, said SafeRx will serve as a real-time decision-support tool for doctors, ensuring medication safety, appropriate antibiotic use, and adherence to clinical protocols. The AI system is capable of evaluating a patient's previous history, diagnosis, and comorbidities before providing prescription suggestions. It also flags potential drug interactions and resistance risks, thereby contributing significantly to better clinical outcomes and public health protection, he said.
Time of India
24 minutes ago
- Time of India
The Webb telescope saw something no one was supposed to see; key details inside
The James Webb Space Telescope recently opened a new window onto one of the universe's more mysterious secrets. For the first time, it has imaged black holes feeding stealthily on stars from deep within dusty galaxies, where even ordinary telescopes are blocked. These results, published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters on August 1, show how JWST's intense infrared sight enables astronomers to look through dense clouds of cosmic dust. And what it's showing is a long hidden face of black holes and to particularly those previously believed to be asleep. Black holes that are not actively gathering matter are not possible to detect under normal conditions. But then something alters when a star wanders in too close. The black hole's incredible gravity distorts the star into a spinning disk of scorching gas. This event, called a tidal disruption event (TDE), briefly wakes the black hole. As the gas disk warms, it emits energy in the form of X-rays, ultraviolet, and visible light—causing the black hole to be seen for a brief period. What do the MIT researchers say about this? But these standard wavelengths of light can be totally obscured if the black hole is occulted by thick dust, says MIT astrophysicist Megan Masterson. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Walmart Photos Which Are Not For Everyone Old Money Style Undo That's why most observed TDEs have been seen in comparably dust-poor areas. But that doesn't mean they're not occurring in more dusty galaxies as well, they're just much more difficult to detect. Luckily, dust has a tell. When it absorbs radiation from the gas of a shredded star, it releases it as infrared light. In previous research, Masterson and colleagues went through old infrared data and discovered 12 probable TDEs that had escaped detection. Next, JWST has focused on four of those occurrences. With its power to identify a broader spectrum of infrared signals than any previous telescope, it detected emission from electrons that had been ejected from atoms. That type of activity typically succeeds a burst of intense X-ray and ultraviolet emissions, another indicator that a black hole has just eaten a star. The scientists say it's doubtful these signals originated from actively feeding black holes, which spend most of their time eating and lounging in dense clouds of dust. Rather, what's seen as silicate dust patterns indicates something more fleeting. Computer simulations verified that these indicators are consistent with what would be expected from a long-dormant black hole waking up for just long enough to cannibalize a star. Strangely enough, this type of infrared radiation takes a few months longer to arrive than other wavelengths. That's because it takes time for light from the exploded star to travel and warm the surrounding dust. But as Masterson puts it, this tardy infrared glow is one of the best and only methods of observing black holes obscured by veils of dust. Now, with JWST, researchers are finally in a position to reveal such ancient cosmic meals. And it's just the start.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Radioactive horns: South Africa's bold approach to rhino conservation
In a world-first effort to combat the ruthless poaching of rhinos, scientists in South Africa have developed a groundbreaking method: injecting rhino horns with radioactive material. The initiative, known as the Rhisotope Project, is the brainchild of researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) and marks a bold, science-driven attempt to save one of Africa's most iconic animals. South Africa is home to the largest population of rhinos in the world—particularly white rhinos and the critically endangered black rhinos. Yet, this very distinction has turned the country into a poaching hotspot. According to conservation charity Save the Rhino , over 400 rhinos have been poached in South Africa every year since 2021, driven by illegal trade networks that stretch from African parks to Asian markets. Read more: After humans, this mammal rules the Earth, and 5 countries with its thriving population (no, not cows!) Rhino horns are highly sought after in parts of Asia, where they are believed to have medicinal properties and are also viewed as luxury status symbols. The lucrative black market has made it difficult for governments and conservationists to keep pace. A radioactive breakthrough Enter the Rhisotope Project, a six-year research effort that cost roughly £220,000 ($290,000) and involved collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The method involves injecting a tiny amount of radioactive isotope into a rhino's horn, a process that has been rigorously tested and deemed completely safe for the animals. Wits University professor James Larkin, one of the key figures behind the project, told the BBC that the innovation shifts the approach from reactive to proactive. 'At least one animal a day is still being poached,' he said. 'This is a significant tool to help reduce the numbers of poaching.' The idea is not to harm anyone who touches the horn but to make the horn detectable by radiation monitors at ports, airports, and border crossings. Customs officers, who already use radiation detectors for other security purposes, could easily identify smuggled rhino horns—even those hidden inside massive 40-foot shipping containers. Pilot study The initial pilot involved 20 rhinos, all of whom responded well to the treatment. Larkin confirmed the material was 'completely safe' and did not harm the animals. The team's success in proving that the radioactive horns can be tracked through international freight systems marks a pivotal moment in the fight against wildlife trafficking. Jessica Babich, head of the Rhisotope Project, emphasized the scale of their ambition: 'Our goal is to deploy the Rhisotope technology at scale to help protect one of Africa's most iconic and threatened species. By doing so, we safeguard not just rhinos but a vital part of our natural heritage.' Read more: 5 snake parks in India that are absolutely fang-tastic and what makes them special Conservationist Jamie Joseph, director of Saving the Wild , called the project 'innovative and much needed.' She noted that while this solution isn't the 'endgame,' it can still disrupt smuggling networks and help experts better understand trafficking routes through hard data. 'It will certainly help disrupt the flow of horns leaving the country and help experts better map out the illegal channels by providing reliable data,' she added. Despite its promise, the Rhisotope Project is not a silver bullet. Activists and scientists alike stress the need for stronger laws, enforcement, and political will. Without these structural changes, even the most advanced technologies may only offer short-term deterrence. Still, the Rhisotope Project represents a rare intersection of nuclear science, conservation, and real-world impact—an example of how innovation can step into spaces where policy and enforcement have lagged. As poachers use more sophisticated tools, so tools used to fight them are also being enhanced. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes , messages and quotes !
