Archive · 11 Jun 2025
NASA Raises Odds of Asteroid 2024 YR4 Hitting Moon in 2032
Scientists are watching asteroid 2024 YR4, which was first thought to be heading for Earth.
However, it is now predicted to potentially hit the Moon in 2032.
The chances of this happening have increased slightly.
Though the Moon has many craters, and one more impact likely won't change it.
NASA and astronomers are using the James Webb Space Telescope to refine its trajectory.
The asteroid won't be visible again until 2028, when scientists plan more observations to further refine the impact probability.
NASA has increased the estimated probability of asteroid 2024 YR4 impacting the Moon in 2032.
Initially, the asteroid was considered a potential threat to Earth before scientists confirmed a lunar trajectory.
The James Webb Space Telescope is being used to track the asteroid's path.
The asteroid is estimated to be about the size of a 10-story building.
Scientists will be watching for 2028 to further evaluate the asteroid's trajectory.
- Who
- NASA and astronomers
- What
- Asteroid 2024 YR4 may impact the Moon.
- When
- Potential impact on December 22, 2032
- Where
- The Moon
- Why
- To monitor the asteroid's orbit and potential impact.
Concerns
Reassurance
Impact Concerns
Concerns
Potential impact on the Moon.
Reassurance
A collision with the moon is not a big problem.
- Asteroid Name
- 2024 YR4
- Potential Impact Target
- Moon
- Potential Impact Date
- December 22, 2032
- Asteroid Diameter
- 53-67 meters
- Impact Probability
- 3.8% to 4.3%
- Telescope Used
- James Webb Space Telescope
Sources
An Asteroid That Was Once A Threat to Earth Could Hit the Moon In 2032, Says NASA
Earth Safe For Now, But Asteroid 2024 YR4 May Hit The Moon In 2032, Warns NASA
NASA Confirms: Former Earth-Threatening Asteroid Now Set 2024 YR4 to Hit Moon in 2032
