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…