No, according to NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, Asteroid 2024 YR4 will not impact the moon in 2032. This conclusion comes after a reassessment of the asteroid’s trajectory, which has reduced the chances of a lunar impact from a previous estimate of 4.3% to zero.

The asteroid, discovered in late 2024 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) network, measures between 174 and 220 feet (53 to 67 meters) in diameter. It is significant enough that if it were to strike Earth, it could unleash the equivalent force of 500 Hiroshima bombs.

NASA’s analysis indicates that Asteroid 2024 YR4 will pass by the moon at a safe distance of 13,200 miles (21,200 kilometers). This distance is well within the parameters that ensure no risk of collision with the lunar surface.

The moon itself goes through a cycle of phases, taking approximately 29.5 days to orbit Earth. On March 5, 2026, for instance, the moon will be in a Waning Gibbous phase with 96% illumination, as noted by NASA’s Daily Moon Guide.

The confirmation that Asteroid 2024 YR4 poses no threat to the moon is a relief for astronomers and space agencies, who continuously monitor near-Earth objects for potential risks. The previous estimates had raised concerns about the asteroid’s trajectory, but the latest data has provided clarity.

As the scientific community continues to study such celestial bodies, the focus remains on ensuring that any future threats are identified and assessed promptly. The capabilities of instruments like the James Webb Space Telescope are crucial in this ongoing effort.

While the immediate threat from Asteroid 2024 YR4 has been eliminated, the monitoring of other asteroids continues. The dynamics of space are complex, and new discoveries can change the landscape of potential risks.

In summary, the confirmation from NASA serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in space exploration and monitoring. The next full moon in North America is expected on April 1, 2026, providing a timely opportunity for skywatchers to observe the moon without concern for this particular asteroid.

The post Moon appeared first on bangalinews.