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Potentially Hazardous Asteroid 2024 YR4 Resembles Hockey Puck
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Scientists have characterized asteroid 2024 YR4, once considered a potential Earth impact hazard, as resembling a spinning hockey puck. While the probability of Earth impact has decreased, astronomers indicate a possible future lunar impact for this space rock.
Observations from the Gemini South Observatory in Chile allowed a team of astronomers to study asteroid 2024 YR4 in various wavelengths as it moved away from Earth in February, shortly after its discovery. This research enabled the creation of a three-dimensional model of the celestial object based on the collected data.
Unique Shape and Rotation
The asteroid, measuring approximately 200 feet (60 meters) in diameter, exhibits a distinct flat disk-like form, akin to a hockey puck, rather than the more typical potato shape observed in asteroids. Furthermore, the space rock displays a rapid rotation period, completing one rotation roughly every 20 minutes.
Bryce Bolin from Eureka Scientific, the research team lead, stated that this unusual shape was “rather unexpected.” He explained that prevalent understanding suggests asteroids are typically shaped like potatoes or spinning tops, not flat disks.
Origin and Composition
Scientists believe the asteroid likely originated from the main asteroid belt located between Mars and Jupiter. Analysis suggests it is primarily composed of silicate materials.
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Earth and Moon Impact Probabilities
Earlier this year, both NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) estimated a 3% probability of asteroid 2024 YR4 impacting Earth in 2032. Current data indicates that the probability of Earth impact within the next century is now virtually nonexistent. However, a 3.8% chance of a lunar impact remains. NASA has clarified that even in the event of a moon impact, the lunar orbit will remain unaffected.
Future Observations
Asteroid 2024 YR4, which approaches Earth every four years, will become too distant for ground-based telescopes next week. Astronomers plan to conduct further observations using the James Webb Space Telescope later this month or in the following month.
Planetary Defense Practice
Scientists emphasize that studying asteroids like 2024 YR4 provides valuable experience for future planetary defense efforts should a truly hazardous asteroid be detected on a collision course with Earth.