2032 'City-Killer' Asteroid Impact Threat and Its Potential Effects on Earth
A recent study warns that a massive asteroid, known as 2024 YR4, poses a significant risk of impacting Earth's Moon in 2032. Although the chance of it striking Earth has been ruled out, the asteroid could collide with the Moon, causing a massive explosion comparable to a large nuclear blast. This impact could eject up to 100 million kilograms of debris from the lunar surface, which might be pulled toward Earth by gravity, threatening satellites and creating a spectacular meteor shower visible from the ground. The asteroid measures about 60 meters in diameter and has been tracked extensively.
Current data indicates a 4.3% chance of hitting the Moon, with a minor 2% probability of directly striking the lunar near side. If it impacts, the debris could generate a spike in meteor activity, potentially over 1,000 times the usual rate, endangering spacecraft and satellites in orbit.
Scientists emphasize that the event would highlight the importance of planetary defense strategies. The asteroid's size and potential impact dynamics make it an intriguing target for testing asteroid deflection methods, especially since a similar approach was successfully used in 2022 to alter the trajectory of the asteroid
Dimorphos. Researchers note that monitoring and preparing for such threats are crucial as the asteroid is not expected to be visible again until 2028. Further observations will be necessary to determine the likelihood of impact and consider possible mitigation measures.
