NASA Monitors 'City Killer' Asteroid Threatening Mumbai

NASA Issues Warning on Asteroid YR4

NASA has issued a warning regarding asteroid YR4, also known as the 'City Killer', which poses a potential threat to Mumbai and several other global cities. According to the latest observations, the asteroid is expected to pass near Earth on December 22, 2032, with a 1.5% probability of impact. This marks the first time an asteroid has been identified as a direct hazard to a high-population area.

What is the 'City Killer' Asteroid?

Asteroid YR4 was discovered in December 2024 and has since been closely monitored by astronomers worldwide. It is estimated to be 130 to 300 feet wide, large enough to cause severe destruction if it collides with Earth.

• If it explodes in the atmosphere, it could create a powerful shockwave.

• If it hits the ground, it may result in a massive crater, similar to previous asteroid impacts in Earth's history.

Cities Under Threat

NASA has identified multiple cities that could be at risk if asteroid YR4 changes its trajectory:

• Mumbai, India

• Kolkata, India

• Bogotá, Colombia

• Lagos, Nigeria

• Dhaka, Bangladesh

Experts warn that densely populated urban centers could suffer catastrophic damage in the event of an impact.

NASA's Monitoring & Mitigation Efforts

International Space Agencies on High Alert

Given the greater than 1% impact probability, NASA and other global space agencies, including the European Space Agency (ESA) and United Nations Space Mission Advisory Group, are closely monitoring the asteroid.

DART Mission: A Possible Solution?

The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission, which successfully altered an asteroid’s path in 2022, is being considered as a potential mitigation strategy. Scientists believe that if YR4 remains a significant threat, a deflection mission could be launched before 2028 to alter its trajectory.

Should Mumbai Residents Be Worried?

Despite the alarming projections, NASA reassures that there is a high probability the asteroid will pass Earth without causing harm. Professor Colin Snodgrass from the University of Edinburgh stated, "There is no immediate need for panic, as further studies are required to determine the asteroid’s exact path."

Final Thoughts

While asteroid YR4 remains on NASA’s high-risk watchlist, experts emphasize the importance of continued observation. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether defensive measures, like asteroid deflection missions, will be necessary to safeguard Earth from a potential impact.