Summary
Scientists, including NASA researchers, proposed using nuclear devices to prevent an asteroid, identified as 2024 YR4, from hitting the moon in 2032. Although the asteroid no longer poses a threat to Earth, there is a 4 percent chance it could impact the moon, potentially creating debris that could threaten satellites and astronauts.
Key Facts
- The plan involves nuclear devices to stop asteroid 2024 YR4 from hitting the moon.
- The asteroid has a 4 percent chance of impacting the moon in 2032.
- Initially, the asteroid was a potential threat to Earth, but that risk has been removed.
- The moon impact could create debris harmful to satellites and astronauts.
- Nuclear devices are considered more effective than other deflection methods for this scenario.
- Devices would be launched at the asteroid to disrupt its path before it reaches the moon.
- The James Webb Space Telescope will track the asteroid for updated probabilities in 2026.
- The plan helps researchers prepare for future similar threats to Earth.
