Asteroid 2024 YR4’s collision likelihood has increased to 2.3%, posing an escalating threat to Earth. Its potential impact could generate energy exceeding 500 atomic bombs, especially endangering heavily populated nations like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. NASA and ESA are closely monitoring this asteroid, identified since last December, as it approaches in December 2032.
Asteroid 2024 YR4 poses a rising threat of collision with Earth, with its impact probability increasing from 1% to 2.3%. Scientists remain concerned about this increase, especially given the lack of information regarding the asteroid’s size and velocity. Current estimates suggest it could measure around 200 meters in diameter. NASA has started identifying potential impact zones to prepare for the possibility of a collision that could devastate populated areas like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
If asteroid 2024 YR4 collides with Earth, it could unleash energy equivalent to more than 500 atomic bombs, potentially obliterating entire cities. David Rankin, an engineer with NASA’s Catalina Sky Survey, has indicated a risk corridor that extends from northern South America to the Pacific Ocean, through southern Asia and parts of sub-Saharan Africa, marking countries at risk such as India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
The asteroid was first identified last December and has since become a significant concern for both NASA and the European Space Agency. With its current collision probability at 2.3% and rated three on the Torino scale, 2024 YR4 is classified as hazardous. Currently, it is predicted to approach Earth closely at a distance of approximately 106,000 kilometers on December 22, 2032.
This trajectory may lead to a potential collision corridor stretching from western Central America to northern South America, crossing into central Africa and possibly impacting areas in India. Data about 2024 YR4 remains limited, sparking urgency among scientists to monitor its path and assess possible defensive measures.
Asteroid 2024 YR4 presents a notable risk of destruction, particularly for densely populated regions in South Asia, with an increasing probability of collision. Its potential energy release poses a significant threat, prompting NASA to seek preventive strategies. Continuous monitoring and preparedness are essential as the asteroid approaches in December 2032.
Original Source: www.india.com
