𝗦𝗖𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦: "City Killer: NASA discovers compacted asteroid that could potientally hit Earth" by Matthew H. Baluca

 

Published by: Jean Ashley Lugod 

Date Published: February 10, 2025

Time Published: 10:11 AM

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration reports that asteroid 2024 YR4 has a 1.6% chance of colliding with Earth on December 22, 2032, measuring between 130 and 300 feet in diameter.

According to NASA’s Near Earth Object Program, the asteroid that was discovered on December 27, 2024 at the El Sauce Observatory in Chile, and is currently rated at level 3 on the Torino Impact Hazard Scale.

This means it has a minuscule but notable chance of impact, requiring continued observation.

“While the probability remains low, we are taking this seriously and refining our calculations,” stated by Dr. Jane Thompson, a spokesperson for NASA.

The International Asteroid Warning Network has issued a notice about 2024 YR4, initiating the first step in planetary defense measures.

Various space agencies, including NASA and the European Space Agency, are considering possible deflection strategies if the impact probability increases.

Recent missions, such as NASA’s DART test in 2022, demonstrated that altering an asteroid’s course is feasible.

“We now have the technology to modify an asteroid’s trajectory, and we are prepared to act if necessary,” stated by Dr. Michael Rodriguez, a planetary defense expert.

If an impact occurs, it could cause significant environmental devastation, depending on the asteroid’s final size and velocity.

Past asteroid encounters have shown that early predictions often change as new data becomes available. Scientists expect further tracking to clarify the actual risk within the next few months.

While the discovery of 2024 YR4 has raised public concern, scientists urge people to stay informed rather than panic. most asteroids initially flagged as potential threats were later ruled out due to refined calculations.

NASA continues to improve its tracking systems to detect and mitigate potential asteroid threats in the future.

REFERENCES:

[1] The Record. (2025, January 31). Newly discovered ‘City-Killer’ asteroid has potential to hit Earth. https://www.therecord.com/.../article_00bbf258-e31a-53e9...

[2] GMA Network. (2025,February 1). ‘City-Killer’ asteroid has 1.6% chance of hitting Earth in 2032 NASA. https://www.gmanetwork.com/.../city-killer.../story/

[3] Tribune. (2025, February 1). ‘City-Killer’ asteroid might hit Earth in 2032, but scientists say not to worry. https://tribune.net.ph/.../city-killer-asteroid-might-hit...