NASA warns asteroid impact could carve a kilometer‑deep crater on moon

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The asteroid that was predicted to collide with Earth at the end of 2024, which had spread panic across the world, has now changed its direction. Scientists and the public have breathed a sigh of relief that Earth is now safe, but a new and major concern has emerged. This disaster is now moving towards Earth's satellite, the Moon. The US space agency NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) have expressed concern that 'Asteroid 2024 YR4' could collide with the Moon's surface in the future.

According to the latest data from NASA and ESA, the probability of this giant asteroid colliding with the Moon is currently estimated at 4 percent. However, there is a 96 percent chance that this celestial rock will pass by without causing harm to both Earth and the Moon. Scientists say that a clear picture of this threat will become clear by 2026. By then, based on new data, it will become clear whether the risk of collision has been completely averted or has increased to 30 percent.

If this asteroid collides with the Moon, the consequences could be devastating. Scientists estimate that the impact will be so powerful that it will create a crater half to one kilometer deep on the Moon's surface. The impact will send tons of debris into space, posing a significant threat to satellites orbiting Earth. Furthermore, this event could also trigger a meteor shower.

NASA and European agencies have already geared up to protect the Moon from this potential catastrophe. Scientists are currently considering options such as sending a spacecraft to divert the asteroid's path or destroying it using nuclear devices. While no final plan has been finalized yet, the world is watching this potential astronomical event, expected around 2032.