Potential Impact of Asteroid 2024 YR4 on Earth

A newly identified space rock, potentially as big as a football field, has a 1.6% chance of crashing into Earth on Dec. 22, 2032, according to the International Asteroid Warning Network. The asteroid, known as 2024 YR4, could cause considerable localized damage if it impacts a populated area. The asteroid is estimated to be between 40 to 90 meters in diameter.

Asteroid Threat to Earth

Astronomers warn that an asteroid the size of a football pitch could potentially hit Earth in 7 years, with a 1.2% chance of collision. The asteroid, named 2024 YR4, is currently the highest risk on the asteroid risk list. NASA scientists are considering various methods to prevent a collision, including crashing a sacrificial spacecraft into the asteroid or using nuclear warheads on larger asteroids.

The Collision between Earth and Theia

Earth may have formed continents, plate tectonics, and the moon due to a collision with Theia, a planetary object the size of Mars, around 4.5 billion years ago.

Potential Solar Storm Threat to Earth

A rare and powerful solar storm may occur in outer space today, potentially wreaking havoc on Earth with severe geomagnetic storm conditions. Officials have issued warnings as at least five streams of plasma are heading towards Earth, prompting concerns about disruptions to electronic devices and power grids.

Criticism of Elon Musk's Mars ambitions

Top astronomer criticizes Elon Musk's Mars ambitions as a dangerous illusion, advocating for solving Earth's problems first. Former US President Barack Obama also expresses similar concerns, preferring investment in taking care of Earth.

Geologists reject 'Anthropocene Epoch' proposal

A panel of geologists rejected the proposal for an 'Anthropocene Epoch' in Earth's geological timeline, despite evidence of human impact on the planet since the mid-20th century.

Discovery of Earth's Dawn of Time

Scientists have discovered a window into the dawn of time on Earth hidden beneath the Pacific Ocean, shedding light on the world's infancy and offering clues about the origins of the planet and possibly life itself.

Japan's SLIM Moon Lander Surviving Lunar Night

Japan's SLIM moon lander unexpectedly survived a freezing lunar night and re-established communication with Earth after making a historic pinpoint touchdown on the moon. The spacecraft ran out of power but regained electricity due to a change in sunlight's direction.