NASA scientists are planning a nuclear strike on an asteroid that threatens the Moon.

      September 26, 2025 17:05 Society An international group of scientists on arXiv has developed options for space missions to prevent a collision with asteroid 2024 YR4, which could strike the Moon in seven years. It is planned to be destroyed using nuclear weapons, reports the TV channel "360".

      The team also includes NASA specialists involved in developing a planetary defense mission. The plan to destroy the asteroid includes several options — reconnaissance, ramming, and even a nuclear detonation.

      The asteroid was first spotted at the end of 2024. Scientists initially estimated a 3% probability of its colliding with Earth in December 2032, but later ruled out that scenario. They did, however, allow for the possibility of a collision with the Moon — that probability is 4%.

      "We are considering options of flyby and close-approach reconnaissance, deflection, and reliable destruction of the asteroid," the scientists clarified.

      But missions to deflect it were deemed impractical. However, options involving kinetic impact and a nuclear blast were considered acceptable. In addition, in 2028 scientists plan to send a spy probe to the asteroid to gather information.

      Now scientists must determine whether there is a possibility that, during these maneuvers, the asteroid could be accidentally directed toward Earth.

      Earlier, NASA reported a risk of Earth colliding with a large asteroid in 2046. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay informed about major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999–2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is required. This resource may contain content intended for ages 18+.