Asteroid 2024 YR4

Recent observations by NASA have heightened concerns about asteroid 2024 YR4. The likelihood of a collision with Earth has increased from just over one per cent to over two per cent. In response, astronomers have directed the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to study the asteroid. This powerful telescope is positioned 1.5 million km from Earth and is crucial for understanding the asteroid’s size and orbit.

Current Status of Asteroid 2024 YR4

Asteroid 2024 YR4 is currently about 35 million miles away. Initial calculations indicated a 1 in 83 chance of impact in 2032. Recent data has raised this probability to 2.3 per cent. Although the asteroid is relatively small, measuring about 200 feet in diameter, its potential impact could devastate an area of around 800 square miles.

Potential Impact Zones

If asteroid 2024 YR4 were to strike Earth, potential impact zones include the Pacific Ocean, South America, Africa, and South Asia. The European Space Agency (ESA) has noted that while the chance of impact is slim, any collision would have localised effects.

James Webb Space Telescope’s Role

The JWST is very important in assessing the hazard posed by asteroid 2024 YR4. It can detect infrared light emitted by the asteroid, providing a clearer estimate of its size. Current estimates of the asteroid’s diameter range from 40 to 90 metres. Observations using the JWST’s NIRCam instrument will complement thermal data from the MIRI instrument.

Significance of the Observations

The observations made by the JWST are for planetary defence. They will help reduce the uncertainty surrounding the asteroid’s orbit. Accurate measurements are essential to eliminate any risk of impact. The global planetary defence community is closely monitoring the situation.

Broader Context of Planetary Defence

Planetary defence involves detecting and tracking near-Earth objects. The goal is to prevent potential impacts that could cause catastrophic damage. With advancements in technology, telescopes like the JWST are becoming crucial tools in this field. They offer unprecedented capabilities to study celestial objects and assess threats.

Recent Discoveries by JWST

In addition to studying asteroid 2024 YR4, the JWST has made groundbreaking discoveries. One notable find is the galaxy “Firefly Sparkle,” which formed just 600 million years after the Big Bang. This discovery provides vital information about the early universe and the formation of galaxies, including the Milky Way.

Future Monitoring Plans

As asteroid 2024 YR4 moves further away from Earth, continuous monitoring will be challenging. However, the data collected by the JWST will provide valuable information for future assessments. This ongoing research puts stress on the importance of international collaboration in planetary defence efforts.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the implications of asteroid impacts on Earth’s ecosystems and human populations.
2. Estimate the effectiveness of current planetary defence strategies in mitigating potential asteroid threats.
3. Point out the advancements in telescope technology and their impact on astronomical research.
4. What is the significance of studying early galaxies like “Firefly Sparkle”? How does it enhance our understanding of the universe?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the implications of asteroid impacts on Earth’s ecosystems and human populations.

1. Asteroid impacts can cause immediate destruction, affecting habitats and ecosystems.
2. Large impacts can lead to climate changes, such as “impact winter,” disrupting food chains.
3. Human populations may face casualties, economic losses, and infrastructure damage.
4. Long-term effects can include biodiversity loss and altered land use patterns.
5. Preparedness and response strategies are crucial for minimizing impact consequences.

2. Estimate the effectiveness of current planetary defence strategies in mitigating potential asteroid threats.

1. Current strategies include tracking, monitoring, and characterizing near-Earth objects (NEOs).
2. Technologies like radar and telescopes (e.g., JWST) enhance detection capabilities.
3. International collaboration improves data sharing and threat assessment.
4. Deflection and disruption techniques are in research phases, showing promise but needing testing.
5. Public awareness and preparedness programs are vital for effective response to potential threats.

3. Point out the advancements in telescope technology and their impact on astronomical research.

1. New telescopes like JWST allow for infrared observations, revealing previously hidden celestial objects.
2. Increased sensitivity and resolution enable detailed studies of distant galaxies and exoplanets.
3. Adaptive optics and ground-based telescopes enhance image clarity and reduce atmospheric distortion.
4. Technological integration (AI, machine learning) aids in data analysis and discovery processes.
5. Collaboration between space and ground observatories expands research capabilities and findings.

4. What is the significance of studying early galaxies like “Firefly Sparkle”? How does it enhance our understanding of the universe?

1. Studying early galaxies provides vital information about the formation and evolution of the universe.
2. It helps researchers understand conditions present shortly after the Big Bang.
3. Observations of star formation in these galaxies inform theories about galaxy development.
4. into the chemical composition of early galaxies reveal the origins of elements.
5. Such studies contribute to our understanding of the Milky Way’s history and structure.