A newly discovered asteroid is making headlines worldwide. Scientists say there is a small chance it could strike Earth. The space rock, named Asteroid 2024 YR4, has raised concerns. However, experts insist there is no need to panic.
Impact Risk Rises, But Experts Remain Calm
NASA recently increased the impact risk to 3.1%. That means there is a one in 32 chance of collision. The asteroid measures around 54 metres in diameter. If it hits, it could destroy an entire city. But experts believe the risk will soon decrease.
Bruce Betts from the Planetary Society remains unconcerned. "I'm not panicking," he told AFP this week. He explained that further observations should refine the asteroid’s path. With more data, the risk could drop to zero.
Viral Video Sparks Public Fear
A video showing a city-leveling impact has gone viral. The animation was made by 3D artist Alvaro Gracia Montoya. It shows the devastating effect of an asteroid strike. Social media users have shared it thousands of times.
NEW: NASA has increased the chance a major asteroid smashes into Earth in 2032, now giving it a 3.1% chance, up from 2.6% last week.NASA says the odds the asteroid hits Earth is 1 in 32. It is big enough to wipe out an entire city.The large cities with the highest risk are pic.twitter.com/WHVsiGsieT
Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 18, 2025
Asteroid 2024 YR4 was first spotted in December 2023. The International Asteroid Warning Network issued an early alert. Since then, its estimated impact risk has fluctuated. The current impact date is set for 22 December 2032.
Despite concerns, scientists stress the odds remain in Earth’s favour. There is still a 96.9% chance the asteroid will miss. A tiny 0.3% chance exists that it may hit the Moon. Further studies will refine its trajectory in the coming months.
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