JWST Characterizes Potentially Hazardous Asteroid 2024 YR4: Lunar Impact Remains a Low Probability
JWST Characterizes Potentially Hazardous Asteroid 2024 YR4: Lunar Impact Remains a Low Probability
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) conducted its first observation of near-Earth asteroid 2024 YR4, refining its size estimate to 174-220 feet (53-67 meters) in diameter. Initial ground-based observations underestimated its size.
JWST’s infrared capabilities provided a more accurate size and composition assessment than visible-light observations. The data suggests a rockier composition than previously thought.
The observation confirms that 2024 YR4 poses no threat of impacting Earth in 2032. However, the probability of a lunar impact has increased slightly to 3.8%.
A second JWST observation is scheduled for May 2025 to further refine the asteroid’s trajectory and the likelihood of a lunar collision. While a lunar impact would be scientifically valuable, it poses no threat to Earth.
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