Asteroid's Unusual Shape Revealed

Astronomers have made surprising discoveries about a recent visitor to our solar system: asteroid 2024 YR4, which bears a striking resemblance to a spinning hockey puck. Just months after its discovery, this nearly 200-foot (60-meter) space rock has captivated scientists with its unexpected flat, disk-like shape.

Groundbreaking Observations

Using the Gemini South Observatory in Chile, a team of astronomers analyzed the asteroid as it sped away from Earth in February. They utilized multiple wavelengths to create a 3D image, revealing its peculiar structure, which spins rapidly once every 20 minutes.

A Surprising Shape in Space

This disk-like asteroid challenges the typical shapes commonly seen among its peers, which are usually round like potatoes or shaped like tops. Lead researcher Bryce Bolin from Eureka Scientific remarked on the surprise, stating, "This find was rather unexpected since most asteroids are thought to be shaped like potatoes or toy tops rather than flat disks."

Origins and Risks of 2024 YR4

Scientists believe that 2024 YR4 likely originated from the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter and is rich in silicate materials. Earlier this year, NASA and the European Space Agency estimated a 3% chance of the asteroid colliding with Earth in 2032, but that risk has now plummeted to almost zero for the next century. However, there's still a 3.8% chance it could strike the moon.

Future Observations and Earth Safety Practices

As 2024 YR4 makes its rounds every four years, it will be too far away for ground telescopes to monitor by next week. However, the Webb Space Telescope is set to take another look at it later this month or next. These observations play a crucial role in preparing for potential threats in the future.

NASA assures that even if the asteroid does hit the moon, it will not alter the moon's orbit, ensuring continued safety for our planet.