news 
NASA Upgrades, Then Lowers Odds Of Asteroid Hitting Earth — Here’s Why
In a shocking turn of events, NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies has upgraded and then lowered the odds of asteroid 2024 YR4 striking our planet. Just yesterday, scientists at NASA were bracing themselves for an unprecedented threat as they updated the impact probability to a staggering 1-in-32. But today, those same experts have revised their forecast, dramatically reducing the chances of collision to just 1-in-67.
According to Dr. Richard Binzel, Professor of Planetary Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and inventor of the Torino Impact Hazard Scale, this drastic change is a result of new data collected overnight. While some may be relieved by the sudden shift in probabilities, it’s essential to remember that asteroid 2024 YR4 remains classified as a close encounter, meriting attention from astronomers.
Binzel emphasizes that the hazard rating doesn’t change despite the lowering of its chance of impact. “While the probability changes, the hazard rating stays,” he stresses. “2024 YR4 remains Torino Scale 3.” However, there is hope on the horizon as scientists work to refine the asteroid’s orbit and trajectory.
In a surprising twist, NASA officials have noted that the absence of the moon from the evening night sky has actually made it easier for astronomers to observe 2024 YR4. Although this development may seem counterintuitive at first glance, it ultimately allows researchers to gather more accurate data on the asteroid’s path.
As the scientific community continues to track and analyze the movement of asteroid 2024 YR4, we can expect a flurry of updates and revisions in the coming weeks and months. Binzel cautions that this uncertainty is merely a natural part of the process, emphasizing that astronomers do not wish to keep any secrets and are committed to transparency.
“It might seem confusing or worrying, but it is simply the nature of this particular science,” he reassures us. “Astronomers do not wish to keep any secrets, as anyone can just look up. The sky is free to everyone.”
While some may be anxious about the sudden shift in probabilities, Dr. Binzel’s words should provide reassurance that scientists are working tirelessly to resolve this uncertainty and provide a clear answer one way or another.
For now, it appears we’ll have to continue monitoring the situation and await further updates from NASA officials.
Source: http://www.forbes.com
