Astronomical phenomena have always fascinated me. The Universe is still a largely unexplored space, and we are learning new things about it every moment thanks to advanced science. But I’m not sure yet whether they fascinate or terrify me more. For example, the solar eclipse that will occur this August intrigues me and I am willing to travel all the way to Spain for it. On the other hand, the asteroid that is due to hit the moon in a few years’ time strikes me as a rather dangerous thing. Even though scientists say our planet is perfectly safe.

Asteroid 2024 YR4 became the subject of debate among astronomers at the beginning of 2025. For a short time, it was written that this celestial body could hit the Earth on 22 December 2032. But then, fortunately, it turned out that the asteroid would miss our planet. Within a short time, scientists managed to frighten and then reassure millions of people.

The Earth is safe, the Moon is in danger

It turns out that there is no danger of an asteroid colliding with our planet. However, there is a chance that the object will hit the Moon. Experts say the chance is about 4.3%. Although this number may seem insignificant, it constantly causes me concern. Our planet is not officially in danger, but if an asteroid does collide with the moon, what does that mean for us?

The event fascinates me, but it also scares me. But astronomers seem rather excited about it. It would be the first time we’ve seen a larger object hit the moon. An asteroid with a diameter of about 60 metres would apparently create a crater on the Moon with a diameter of about 1,200 metres. Experts are fascinated by these assumptions and, if they continue to monitor the asteroid’s movement, they will be able to observe the whole “event” live.

Will an asteroid hit the moon in 2032? Even if it does, our planet is out of danger for at least 100 years. ━━ Will an asteroid hit the moon in 2032? Even if it does, our planet is out of danger for at least 100 years. ( Source: Ivana Cajina /  Unsplash+ )

Scientists are now monitoring the situation

Astronomers assure that planet Earth is safe for at least 100 years. They are currently monitoring asteroid 2024 YR4 and checking whether the chances of a collision with the Moon are decreasing or increasing. It should be clear by the end of 2028 whether a collision between these bodies will happen.

In the event that the situation does occur, experts estimate that a flare with the brightness of the planet Jupiter could be visible from Earth, illuminating the Moon for about two-thirds of an hour. However, from central Europe, the flash would not be visible because of the position of the Moon relative to our planet at that time. Who knows, maybe by then I will have made up my mind whether I am more frightened or fascinated by the situation and will decide to travel abroad again for the chance to see something like this.