Asteroid half the size of a football field threatens Earth in 2032

A newly discovered asteroid, half the size of a football field, is being closely monitored for its potential impact with Earth in 2032. The asteroid, dubbed 2024 YR4, was discovered by the Catalina Sky Survey on December 25, 2024.

Asteroid half the size of a football field threatens Earth in 2032 Picture 1

Asteroid 2024 YR4 could hit Earth in 2032.

According to scientists, 2024 YR4 has a 1/83, or 1.2%, chance of colliding with Earth. Although this rate is not high, it is enough to make scientists concerned, because if a collision occurs, the consequences could be very serious.

Asteroid 2024 YR4 is about 55 meters in diameter, and if it collides with Earth, it is estimated to be traveling at a speed of up to 17 kilometers per second. The collision could cause a massive explosion with the force of 12 megatons of TNT.

Simulations show that if 2024 YR4 falls on New York City (USA), it will cause severe damage, with millions of casualties and property damage up to billions of dollars.

However, scientists also emphasize that the probability of impact remains low, and that further observations will likely help rule out this risk. Currently, 2024 YR4 is rated 3 on the Torino Impact Hazard scale, meaning it has the potential to cause significant damage to the area if it makes contact.

NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies says 2024 YR4 has a six-probability chance of colliding with Earth between 2032 and 2074, with the highest probability being on December 22, 2032.

Scientists are continuing to closely monitor 2024 YR4 and will update with new information about its orbit.

Lesley Montoya

Update 10 February 2025