A newly observed asteroid, 2024 YR4, which was once thought to pose a small risk to Earth, now presents a fascinating discovery: it has the shape of a spinning hockey puck. According to recent observations by a team of astronomers, the asteroid’s structure and rapid rotation were revealed after using the Gemini South Observatory in Chile.
A Unique Shape: Not Your Typical Asteroid
Unlike many asteroids, which are usually irregular and resemble potatoes or toy tops, asteroid 2024 YR4 is shaped more like a flat disk, similar to a hockey puck. Scientists found that it rotates once every 20 minutes, a much faster rate compared to typical asteroids.
Bryce Bolin, the lead of the research team from Eureka Scientific, mentioned that the asteroid’s shape was unexpected. “Most asteroids are thought to be shaped like potatoes or toy tops, not flat disks,” Bolin said in a statement.
Origins of the Asteroid: A Silicate-Rich Object
This asteroid is likely from the main asteroid belt located between Mars and Jupiter. Scientists believe it is rich in silicates, which are common in objects from that region. Its near 200-foot (60-meter) size further highlights its significant presence.
The Risk of Collision: A Change in Predictions
Earlier this year, NASA and the European Space Agency calculated a 3% chance that the asteroid could hit Earth in 2032. However, those odds have now been reduced to virtually zero for the next century. Interestingly, there is still a 3.8% chance the asteroid might collide with the moon instead. Even in that case, NASA reassures that the moon’s orbit will remain unaffected.
A Regular Visitor to Our Planet
Asteroid 2024 YR4 passes near Earth once every four years. As it zoomed away from Earth in February, it was too far for ground-based telescopes to track. However, the Webb Space Telescope is expected to take another look at the asteroid later this month or next.
Why This Discovery Matters
The observation of asteroid 2024 YR4 offers valuable practice for astronomers studying potentially dangerous asteroids. Even though this particular asteroid poses minimal threat, the lessons learned from monitoring it could prove essential when a more dangerous object approaches in the future.
By closely studying objects like 2024 YR4, scientists are improving their ability to detect and track asteroids, ensuring better preparedness for any future asteroid-related risks.
Looking Ahead: Monitoring and Research
As the asteroid continues its regular orbit, astronomers will continue to study it, gaining insights that may help protect Earth from potential asteroid collisions in the future. This ongoing research is critical for advancing our understanding of space and asteroid movements.
