The Digital Press

Scientists have evaluated mission options to study and potentially mitigate asteroid 2024 YR4, which briefly had a small chance of impacting the Moon in 2032. While direct Earth impact was ruled out early, lunar impact could increase debris risks in Earth's orbit.

Why it matters: Lunar impact ejecta could raise debris in low Earth orbit up to 1000 times, threatening astronauts and satellites.

The big picture: Missions for reconnaissance could launch as early as late 2028; deflection is impractical, but disruption via kinetic or nuclear means remains possible.

The stakes: Without mitigation, increased micrometeoroid flux could endanger space infrastructure and human activities in orbit for days.

Commenters say: Many note the low probability of impact but stress the importance of developing rapid response tech to address emerging asteroid threats.