A massive asteroid named “2024 YR4” initially feared to hit Earth sparked global concern. Scientists first estimated a 1% chance of impact later raising it to 2.3%. The asteroid's size was uncertain with guesses ranging from 130 to 300 meters - large enough to cause severe destruction. However, NASA has now provided an unexpected update.

Details & Context

NASA’s latest assessment has drastically reduced the asteroid’s impact probability. According to their updated calculations the chance of 2024 YR4 hitting Earth has dropped from 2.3% to a mere 0.0017%. The European Space Agency (ESA) also released a similar estimate, suggesting the impact likelihood stands at 0.002%.

The asteroid gained the nickname ‘City Killer’ due to its immense destructive power - capable of flattening an entire city if it struck. Scientists previously warned that if the asteroid were to collide with Earth, it could unleash energy equivalent to 500 nuclear bombs. This scenario could have devastating effects, especially in regions like India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Sudan, Nigeria, Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador.

Despite the alarming initial reports NASA has now confirmed that the asteroid poses no significant threat to Earth. Their updated trajectory analysis shows that 2024 YR4 will safely pass by the planet.

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Additional Information

The Catalina Sky Survey Project by NASA detected 2024 YR4 during routine asteroid monitoring. The project aims to identify near-Earth objects (NEOs) and assess potential risks. While the term ‘City Killer’ may sound terrifying, NASA emphasises that the likelihood of such events remains extremely rare.

Asteroid tracking technology has improved significantly over the years allowing scientists to calculate impact risks with greater accuracy. This recent scare serves as a reminder of the importance of continued space monitoring.

Though the ‘City Killer’ asteroid created a wave of fear, the latest scientific data confirms that Earth is safe from impact. NASA and ESA continue to closely monitor asteroids, ensuring that any potential threats are detected and addressed in time.

Stay tuned for further updates as space agencies worldwide work to protect our planet.