Asteroid Threat Upgraded to 1 in 45

The probability that Asteroid 2004 MN4 will strike the Earth on April 13, 2029 has actually been upgraded to a 1-in-43 chance now that more observations have been made. The asteroid has reached an uprecedented 4 on the Torino scale. Of course, this still means that there's a 98% chance that it'll completely miss the Earth. The space rock is 400 metres (1,300 feet) across, so a direct impact with our planet would cause a significant amount of damage on a regional level.

Update: as of Dec. 28th, the probability has been significantly downgraded thanks to further observations. It'll definitely miss.

Fraser Cain

Fraser Cain

Fraser Cain is the publisher of Universe Today, founding the website in March 1999. He's also the co-host of Astronomy Cast.