An asteroid flying towards Earth may collide with the Moon

Astronomers worldwide are monitoring the approach of asteroid 2024 YR4, which could collide with Earth in December 2032. However, an unexpected hope has emerged - there is a possibility that the celestial body might encounter the Moon.

According to recent observations, the space object, comparable in size to the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa, has a 2.1% probability of colliding with our planet. However, research by David Rankin from the University of Arizona revealed an intriguing detail - there is a 0.3% chance that the asteroid might encounter the Moon.

In case of the lunar scenario, the consequences would be spectacular but safe for Earth. A crater with a diameter ranging from 500 to 2000 meters could form on the satellite's surface. The collision would occur at a colossal speed of 50 thousand kilometers per hour, resulting in an explosion 343 times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb.

Experts disagree about the visibility of the event from Earth. Professor Gareth Collins claims that the flash would be visible even during daylight, while astronomer Daniel Bamberger suggests that the brightness might exceed that of a full Moon.

According to calculations, the potential impact zone is located in the visible part of the Moon - from the Sea of Crises to the Tycho crater, making it possible to observe this historic event from Earth.