Moon Safe From Asteroid 2024 YR4 in 2032, Thanks to Webb Telescope

The moon will not be impacted by asteroid 2024 YR4 in December 2032, latest observations from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) confirm. Initial assessments indicated a 4.3% chance of a lunar collision, but refined data has eliminated that possibility.

Instead, the asteroid is now predicted to pass within 13,200 miles (21,200 kilometers) of the lunar surface on December 22, 2032 – closer than some artificial satellites orbit Earth, according to a March 5, 2026 NASA statement.

Discovery and Initial Concerns

Asteroid 2024 YR4 was initially discovered in late 2024 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) network. Early observations revealed the asteroid to be approximately 174 to 220 feet (53 to 67 meters) in diameter – comparable in size to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Its trajectory raised concerns due to its potential to cause significant damage if it were to impact Earth, earning it the nickname “city killer,” as a similar impact could release energy equivalent to 500 Hiroshima bombs Live Science.

The Role of the James Webb Space Telescope

Tracking 2024 YR4 proved challenging. From spring 2025, the asteroid was largely unobservable from both Earth-based and space-based observatories, except for observations made by the JWST. NASA officials stated that the February 18 and 26 JWST observations were “among the faintest ever observations of an asteroid” NASA.

The JWST’s extreme sensitivity allowed astronomers to refine the asteroid’s orbit, ultimately reducing the estimated impact probability to zero for both Earth and the Moon. The new data increased the certainty of the asteroid’s future location, decreasing the range of possible locations NASA.

Future Observations and Planetary Defense

Although 2024 YR4 no longer poses an immediate threat, NASA plans to continue monitoring the asteroid. Further observations are scheduled for 2028, when the asteroid will make another close approach. These observations will help refine planetary defense models and prepare for future close encounters NASA.

Asteroid 2024 YR4 Facts

• Discovery Date: Late 2024
• Size: Approximately 174-220 feet (53-67 meters) in diameter
• Closest Approach to Moon: December 22, 2032, at a distance of 13,200 miles (21,200 kilometers)
• Observatory Used for Refined Orbit: James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

You can find more information about Asteroid 2024 YR4 here.