NASA is closely monitoring the asteroid 2024 YR4, which has recently shown an increased likelihood of a future collision with Earth. New analyses from the University of Arizona indicate that this 90-meter-wide asteroid's chances of striking our planet in 2032 have risen to approximately 2.3%. While there is a mere 0.3% chance of it impacting the Moon instead, scientists warn that such an event could still eject debris back towards Earth. As research continues, NASA remains hopeful that these collision probabilities may decrease as more information is gathered about the asteroid's trajectory. This isn't the first time an object has appeared concerning on the risk list, only to be reassigned a lower threat level later on. With growing collaboration among global space agencies, including China's recent efforts to enhance planetary defense capabilities, the importance of monitoring these 'city-killer' asteroids cannot be understated. The next opportunity for scientists to observe 2024 YR4 more closely will arrive in 2028, which may provide further insights into its potential risks.
