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The chances of this asteroid hitting Earth keep rising. But there are four reasons I’m not worried yet | Carrie Nugent
- A new rocky object known as 2024 YR4 was discovered in Earth's astronomical neighborhood, with a chance of hitting Earth in 2032.
- The impact probability by Nasa JPL has increased to 3.1%, raising concerns about a potential impact.
- Reasons for not panicking yet include the time to prepare, the asteroid's size relative to past impacts, and the predominantly water-covered Earth surface.
- Ongoing data collection and trajectory predictions are crucial in assessing the potential impact of 2024 YR4, with the impact probability subject to change as more information is gathered.
- Efforts by astronomers, software engineers, and civil servants are focusing on monitoring near-Earth objects like 2024 YR4 to mitigate potential risks.
- The asteroid Dart mission demonstrated the ability to alter an asteroid's orbit, offering hope for redirecting objects on a collision course with Earth.
- Continuous surveillance of near-Earth objects by observatories like Atlas and collaborations with international agencies are key to tracking and assessing potential threats.
- While 2024 YR4 requires further observation to determine its trajectory and size accurately, it serves as a reminder of the potential risks posed by larger asteroids.
- Ongoing efforts in asteroid detection and monitoring play a vital role in safeguarding against potential asteroid impacts, despite the uncertainties surrounding specific objects.
- Astronomers and space agencies remain vigilant in tracking and analyzing near-Earth objects to ensure preparedness and mitigation strategies for potential impact events.
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