An asteroid may hit Earth – level 3

An asteroid may hit Earth

18-02-2025 07:00

Scientists are closely tracking asteroid 2024 YR4, which was discovered last year. It is estimated to be between 40 and 90 meters wide and may come very close to Earth on December 22, 2032.

Currently, there is a 2% chance that it could hit the planet, which is slightly higher than previous predictions. However, experts stress there is still a 98% probability that it won’t collide with Earth.

When an asteroid is first spotted, there is a large area of uncertainty regarding its exact path. As more data is gathered, scientists can refine their calculations and often rule out a collision.

If further observations confirm that the asteroid is on a direct course for Earth, a deflection mission could be launched. NASA has already tested this approach by successfully altering the orbit of another asteroid. For now, astronomers will continue to observe 2024 YR4, using tools like the James Webb Space Telescope, before it moves out of sight until 2028.

Difficult words: refine (to improve), rule out (to state that something is impossible or will not happen), deflection (changing direction).

You can watch the video news lower on this page.

What is the current estimated chance of an Earth collision with 2024 YR4, and which deflection method has NASA already tested to potentially avert such an impact?

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