A massive asteroid, 2024 VQ4, is hurtling toward Earth today, and NASA is keeping a close watch. Measuring a staggering 310 feet in size, the asteroid is nearly the size of Big Ben in London, making it a significant object to track. While it won’t pose a direct threat to our planet, the close approach has sparked concerns. At its closest, 2024 VQ4 will come within 5.4 million kilometres of Earth, which is about 14 times the distance between the Earth and the Moon.
What Happens If 2024 VQ4 Hits Earth?
Asteroids like 2024 VQ4, though not massive enough to cause a global catastrophe, can still wreak havoc. A collision with Earth could lead to widespread destruction, particularly if it lands in a populated area. The impact of an object this size could create a massive shockwave, ignite fires, and cause significant damage to infrastructure. Cities could be levelled, and countless lives could be lost, not to mention the long-term environmental impacts from dust and debris blocking sunlight.
While the chances of a direct hit are slim, the fact that asteroids are constantly moving in unpredictable orbits makes their future paths difficult to calculate with complete certainty. Even though 2024 VQ4 will miss Earth by millions of kilometres this time, it’s impossible to say what its future trajectory may be.
How Does NASA Keep Track?
NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) closely monitors objects like 2024 VQ4. The space agency uses powerful telescopes and radar systems, including Pan-STARRS, Catalina Sky Survey, and NEOWISE, to detect and track near-Earth objects. These observations, which are supplemented by amateur astronomers, help scientists understand the orbits of asteroids and predict any potential threats.
Despite constant monitoring, some space rocks remain elusive until they get dangerously close. The data collected from telescopes and planetary radar is essential for early warnings, but experts are still working on improving detection and impact prediction systems. The uncertainty surrounding these objects keeps scientists, and the world, on edge.