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If asteroid YR4 hits our Moon, it'll cause a bright flash and meteors as debris hits Earth, say scientists | BBC Sky at Night Magazine
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If asteroid YR4 hits our Moon, it'll cause a bright flash and meteors as debris hits Earth, say scientists | BBC Sky at Night Magazine

  • The study estimates asteroid 2024 YR4 has a 3.8% chance of hitting the Moon, not Earth.
  • If an impact occurs, a ~1 km crater could form with an infrared glow lasting hours.
  • The impact could trigger Moonquakes detectable by seismometers on the Moon.
  • Debris ejected from the Moon could reach Earth and produce meteors visible in the sky.
  • The flash on the Moon could reach brightness levels similar to magnitude –3 to –5.
  • Astronomers could observe the event with infrared and other instruments as the crater cools.
  • A coordinated observing plan could use NASA and international lunar orbiters to study aftermath.
  • The study maps a timeline from impact to days and years after, including potential lunar meteorites reaching Earth.
  • The projected event would be a rare scientific opportunity to study lunar material and impacts.
  • Observational timing would favor the Pacific hemisphere and sites like Mauna Kea for viewing.
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