NASA's Webb telescope captures photos of the asteroid that won't hit Earth in 2032

Webb Space Telescope Observes Asteroid 2024 YR4

CAPE CANAVERAL, FL – The James Webb Space Telescope has successfully imaged asteroid 2024 YR4, a celestial object that garnered attention earlier this year when initial projections briefly placed it on a list of potential Earth impactors. This observation showcases the powerful capabilities of the Webb telescope in tracking and characterizing near-Earth asteroids.

Asteroid Posed Brief Earth Impact Concern

Asteroid 2024 YR4, discovered in late 2023, initially presented a minor concern with an estimated 3% probability of impacting Earth in 2032. However, subsequent analysis and further observations by astronomers have effectively reduced the threat to negligible levels. While the possibility of a lunar impact remains extremely remote, the asteroid’s orbit periodically brings it into Earth’s vicinity approximately every four years.

Webb Data Confirms Asteroid Size

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the European Space Agency (ESA) jointly released the Webb telescope images on Wednesday, depicting the asteroid as a faint point of light against the vastness of space. Data acquired by Webb confirms asteroid 2024 YR4’s dimensions at approximately 60 meters in diameter. This size equates to roughly the height of a 15-story building, offering a tangible sense of scale.

Notably, this marks the smallest celestial body successfully observed and measured by the Webb observatory to date. The telescope, recognized as the most advanced and largest space observatory ever constructed, continues to push the boundaries of astronomical observation.

Observation Crucial for Planetary Defense

Andrew Rivkin, an astronomer at Johns Hopkins University, emphasized that the Webb telescope’s observations provide “invaluable” experience for studying other near-Earth asteroids that could potentially pose a future hazard. Ground-based telescopes have also been continuously tracking this particular asteroid over recent months, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of its trajectory and characteristics.

Rivkin, who participated in the observation efforts, stated that this collective data offers crucial insights into the nature of space rocks similar in size to 2024 YR4, including those that might pose an impact risk to our planet. Such observations are vital for advancing planetary defense strategies and enhancing our ability to detect and characterize potential asteroid threats.