Webb Telescope Maps Size and Images of Potentially Hazardous Asteroid 2024 YR4

Quick Summary

• Near-Earth asteroid 2024 YR4 has been identified with an impact probability of 3% for the year 2032.
• The asteroid was discovered on December 27,2024,by the ATLAS station at Río Hurtado.
• It made a close approach to Earth at a distance of approximately 828,800 km (515,000 miles) just two days prior to its finding.
• Initial estimates placed the diameter between 40 and 90 m (131-295 feet). Infrared measurements using NASA/ESA/CSA’s james Webb Space Telescope revised this size estimate to approximately 60 m (197 feet).
• Researchers utilized Webb’s NIRCam and MIRI instruments to measure thermal properties and reflected light from the asteroid’s surface. Observations suggest it is indeed rapidly spinning with a rocky surface dominated by fist-sized or larger rocks, lacking fine-grained sand.
• These findings help refine understanding of its orbit and future trajectory while providing unique insights into small asteroids’ physical characteristics.

Image: Near-Earth Asteroid YR4

indian Opinion Analysis
NASA’s observations reflect critical advances in planetary defense capabilities through targeted studies of potentially hazardous space objects like asteroid YR4. While its current trajectory indicates minimal risk with only a small chance of impact in the next decade, India should take note of global developments in tracking such celestial phenomena as they hold critically important implications for disaster preparedness worldwide.

The use of advanced infrared measures demonstrates a move toward precise hazard assessment mechanisms that can complement conventional methods reliant on visual data alone-something that countries like India could consider integrating into their space research programs led by ISRO. Enhanced collaboration among international bodies for real-time information sharing is another key area highlighted by such efforts.India does not yet have comparable large-scale initiatives focused specifically on planetary defense beyond basic astronomical studies; however, increased investment in creating monitoring infrastructure or participating in global frameworks may prove strategically prudent as scientific capabilities rapidly evolve around these threats.

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