Mar 5 • 17:09 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The asteroid 2024 YR4 will also not collide with the Moon: it will pass 20,000 kilometers away in 2032

Asteroid 2024 YR4 is confirmed to safely pass by the Moon at a distance of 20,000 kilometers in December 2032, alleviating earlier concerns of a potential collision.

Asteroid 2024 YR4, which had previously raised alarm due to its close proximity to Earth and potential risk of impacting the Moon, is now confirmed to be on a safe trajectory. Observations from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope have provided clearer insight, eliminating fears of a collision with the Moon on December 22, 2032. Earlier estimates had suggested a 4% probability of impact, which has now been completely ruled out.

The initial concerns about asteroid 2024 YR4 were significant, marking it as the asteroid with the highest recorded risk of impacting the Earth. Thanks to the capabilities of the James Webb Telescope, astronomers were able to enhance their understanding of its orbit and potential interactions with celestial bodies. The new findings confirm that the asteroid will instead pass at a distance of over 20,000 kilometers, offering relief to both scientists and the public.

This confirmation not only demonstrates the advancement of observational technology in space research but also highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of near-Earth objects. The findings from the James Webb Space Telescope underscore the capability of international space agencies to collaboratively track and assess potentially hazardous space phenomena.

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