China has begun assembling a planetary defense team to address the growing risk of near-Earth asteroids. The move comes after the discovery of asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a 2.2% chance of striking Earth in 2032. The European Space Agency (ESA) updated its risk list on Friday, placing the asteroid at the top.
“You have to prepare early for these threats,” a Chinese space official said about the decision. The asteroid was first detected in December by the University of Hawaii’s Institute of Astronomy. Its estimated size ranges from 40 to 90 meters (130 to 300 feet) wide.
Scientists worldwide began monitoring the asteroid after its impact probability crossed the global response threshold. The risk level triggered international protocols for tracking hazardous space objects. Agencies, including NASA and ESA, are now refining their calculations.
“The margins of error are still high,” an ESA researcher explained. Future observations will determine if the asteroid’s path changes. Any shift in trajectory could either increase or lower the likelihood of impact.
China’s new planetary defense team will focus on asteroid detection, tracking, and possible deflection strategies. The country has expanded its space capabilities in recent years and is now investing in asteroid defense. The team will collaborate with global agencies to share data.
Beijing has already announced plans for a test mission to alter an asteroid’s path. A kinetic impactor or other deflection methods may be used if 2024 YR4 remains a threat. The goal is to ensure early action before a potential collision.
“You need options when dealing with space threats,” a Chinese space scientist said about the mission. China has studied asteroid deflection technologies similar to NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART). The new team will focus on adapting those techniques.
The asteroid’s estimated size is comparable to the one that caused the Tunguska event in 1908. That explosion leveled over 2,000 square kilometers of Siberian forest. A direct impact on a populated area could result in significant damage.
Global monitoring efforts will continue over the next few years. Telescopes and radar stations will collect more data on the asteroid’s speed and orbit. These measurements will help determine the best course of action.
“Time is critical when responding to an asteroid threat,” an ESA official said. Early detection allows scientists to develop deflection plans instead of last-minute emergency measures. Countries with space programs are being urged to coordinate efforts.
China has been expanding its role in space exploration and defense. The country’s lunar and Mars missions have shown its growing technological capability. Planetary defense is now becoming a key focus of China’s space strategy.
Other nations are also monitoring asteroid threats. NASA and ESA have long-standing asteroid tracking programs. China’s participation adds another major player to global defense efforts.
Astronomers will continue refining impact models for 2024 YR4. If new data shows an increased risk, international space agencies may need to take action. A mission to change the asteroid’s course could be launched years in advance.
Chinese officials have not yet announced specific mission details. The planetary defense team will study available options before making recommendations. Global cooperation will play a key role in any final decision.
The risk from 2024 YR4 remains low but cannot be ignored. Space agencies worldwide will keep tracking its movement. If necessary, action will be taken to prevent a future impact.
