An update has been given on the “city-destroying” asteroid heading perilously close towards Earth in 2032.
The space rock, known as 2024 YR4, was originally thought to measure around 40m (131ft) in diameter.
However, astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have determined that the asteroid is actually really 60 metres (200 feet) in diameter.
If it were to hit the earth, it would unleash a deadly blast over 500 times more powerful than the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War Two.
The highest probability estimates for the asteroid hitting Earth were at 3.4 per cent, however these have since been reduced to below 0.001 per cent
GETTYThe highest probability estimates for the asteroid hitting Earth were at 3.4 per cent, however these have since been reduced to below 0.001 per cent.
The space agency had previously feared the chance of a collision with Earth could reach 20 per cent by April.
However, the moon is not so lucky, with impact probability rising to 1-in-55.
A Nasa spokesman said: “There still remains a very small chance for asteroid 2024 YR4 to impact the Moon.”
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Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have determined that the asteroid is actually really 60m (200ft) in diameter
ESADr Vishnu Reddy, International Asteroid Warning Network manager, added: “The most likely outcome is that also the Moon IP (impact probability) will peak at some point and then start to drop quickly.”
Another round of observations from the JWST is set to take place next month, before the asteroid likely “goes dark” for several years as its trajectory takes it into the outer solar system.
It will not be observable from Earth until its next close approach, expected to take place in 2028.
If the asteroid were to hit the moon, humans could still be impacted, as huge amounts of debris would be scattered around space.
This could impact some satellites stationed in space.
The moon's impact probality has risen to 1-in-55
GETTYProfessor Karri Muinonen of the University of Helsinki, told Science Daily: "Should the asteroid impact the moon, the Earth-moon system could be clouded with particles detached from the moon and the asteroid, potentially threatening the human space infrastructure and operations."
However, Nasa has said it does not believe the space rock would be powerful enough to alter the Earth's orbit.
It said: “Asteroid 2024 YR4 has a very small chance of impacting the Moon on December 22, 2032. If the asteroid were to impact the Moon, it would not alter its orbit."
Astronomers first noticed the asteroid hurtling towards Earth in December, immediately placing it at the top of the risk list.
Analysis of the space rock's light signatures indicates it has a typical composition, rather than being composed of rare metals.
These characteristics place it firmly in the category of potentially city-destroying asteroids.
