Asteroid 2024 YR4: Earth Dodges ‘City-Killer’ but Moon Remains at Risk

On January 28, 2025, Asteroid 2025 BS4 made a close approach to Earth, traveling at an astonishing speed of 35,000 miles per hour. NASA scientists closely monitored this near-Earth object (NEO), ensuring it posed no threat to our planet. Asteroid 2025 BS4 measures between 17 and 40 feet across, roughly the size of a school bus.

It weighs over 970,000 pounds and is classified as an NEO due to its proximity to Earth.

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) tracked its trajectory, confirming it would pass safely at a distance of about 511,000 miles—twice the distance from Earth to the Moon.

If Asteroid 2025 BS4 were to collide with Earth, it could unleash energy equivalent to 19,000 tons of TNT, enough to flatten a city the size of Birmingham.

However, NASA ruled out any risk of collision for this encounter. The likelihood of it hitting Earth in the future is extremely low, at 0.000013%.

In addition to 2025 BS4, other asteroids are also being tracked. Asteroid 2025 BH2, about 100 feet wide, passed Earth at a distance of 4,280,000 miles on the same day.

Another asteroid, 2025 BF5, came within 797,000 miles the following day. These encounters highlight the importance of monitoring NEOs.

Is the Moon in Danger?
There is no indication that Asteroid 2025 BS4 or similar NEOs pose a direct threat to the Moon. The Moon orbits at an average distance of about 238,855 miles from Earth, significantly farther than the closest approach of Asteroid 2025 BS4.

A newly discovered asteroid, 2024 YR4, has a slim chance of hitting Earth in 2032. Initially estimated to have a 1.2% chance of impact, recent calculations have significantly lowered this risk. NASA and the European Space Agency continue to monitor its trajectory to refine estimates regarding its size and path.

Asteroid 2025 BS4’s close approach to Earth serves as a reminder of the importance of tracking NEOs. While this asteroid posed no danger, ongoing vigilance is crucial for planetary defense. As technology advances, our ability to monitor and respond to such threats will improve, ensuring both Earth and its lunar companion remain safe from unexpected impacts.

NASA and international space agencies are actively working to identify and track NEOs. With over 37,000 NEOs currently monitored, there are still many more to be discovered. The continued effort to study these celestial bodies will help protect Earth from potential threats in the future.

Public Awareness
The recent attention surrounding asteroids like 2025 BS4 and 2024 YR4 raises public awareness about the importance of space exploration and planetary defense. As scientists continue to study these objects, they are also educating the public about the risks and benefits associated with NEOs. This awareness is crucial for fostering support for ongoing research and monitoring efforts.

In conclusion, Asteroid 2025 BS4’s safe passage highlights the effectiveness of current monitoring systems. However, it also underscores the need for continued vigilance and technological advancements in planetary defense. As we move forward, it will be important to maintain a proactive approach to tracking and understanding NEOs, ensuring that both Earth and the Moon remain safe from potential threats.