Mumbai & Kolkata on Path of Asteroid Nicknamed ‘City Killer’: Reports
In a shocking development, reports have emerged that Mumbai and Kolkata, two of India’s most populous cities, could be impacted if a massive asteroid, nicknamed the ‘City Killer’, hits the Earth in 2032. According to scientists, the asteroid, officially known as 2024 YR4, is predicted to follow a path that could potentially put millions of lives at risk.
The asteroid, which is estimated to be around 1,000 feet in diameter, is believed to be on a collision course with Earth. If it hits, it could trigger “severe blast damage” affecting an area of approximately 31 miles from the impact site. The impact would be equivalent to a massive nuclear bomb, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
According to reports, Mumbai and Kolkata are not the only cities that could be impacted by the asteroid’s predicted path. Other massively populated areas that are also at risk include Bogota in Colombia and Lagos in Nigeria.
So, what exactly is 2024 YR4, and why is it being dubbed the ‘City Killer’? Let’s take a closer look.
What is 2024 YR4?
2024 YR4 is a near-Earth asteroid that was discovered in December 2024. It is a relatively large asteroid, measuring around 1,000 feet in diameter. Asteroids of this size are considered to be potentially hazardous, as they have the potential to cause significant damage if they were to collide with the Earth.
Why is it being dubbed the ‘City Killer’?
The asteroid is being dubbed the ‘City Killer’ because of its predicted path and potential impact. Scientists have calculated that if the asteroid were to hit the Earth, it would release an enormous amount of energy, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
The term ‘City Killer’ was coined by astronomers and scientists who are monitoring the asteroid’s movement. They are warning that the asteroid’s predicted path could put millions of people at risk, making it a potentially catastrophic event.
How did scientists discover the asteroid?
Scientists discovered the asteroid in December 2024 using a combination of ground-based telescopes and space-based observatories. The asteroid was initially identified as a small, faint object, but as more data was collected, scientists were able to determine its size and shape.
What are the chances of the asteroid hitting the Earth?
According to scientists, the chances of the asteroid hitting the Earth are still uncertain. While the asteroid’s predicted path puts Mumbai and Kolkata at risk, there is still a possibility that it could miss the Earth or be deflected off course by various factors.
Scientists are continuing to monitor the asteroid’s movement, using a variety of techniques to track its path and predict its future trajectory. This includes using ground-based telescopes to observe the asteroid’s movement and space-based observatories to collect data on its size, shape, and composition.
What can be done to prevent the asteroid from hitting the Earth?
While there is still uncertainty about the asteroid’s trajectory, scientists are exploring various options to prevent it from hitting the Earth. One option is to launch a spacecraft to nudge the asteroid off course, using a technique called a “gravity assist”.
Another option is to develop a system that could actually deflect the asteroid using a kinetic impactor. This would involve launching a spacecraft that would collide with the asteroid, causing it to change direction and potentially miss the Earth.
Conclusion
The discovery of 2024 YR4 has sent shockwaves around the world, as scientists and experts warn of the potential catastrophic consequences of the asteroid’s predicted path. While there is still uncertainty about the asteroid’s trajectory, it is imperative that we continue to monitor its movement and explore options to prevent it from hitting the Earth.
As the world waits with bated breath for further developments, one thing is clear: the discovery of 2024 YR4 is a sobering reminder of the importance of asteroid detection and deflection.
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