Back to Show
NOVA
This Asteroid Might Make Impact With Earth in 2032
An asteroid is on a collision course with Earth, possibly making impact in 2032. In the unlikely event that Asteroid 2024 YR does strike Earth, it would generate an explosion equal to nearly 8 million tons of TNT. That’s 500 times the power of the atomic bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima during WWII. But there’s no cause for alarm: Space agencies estimate there’s about a 2% chance of impact.
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:21
Follow the epic journey of dog domestication and see what science says about dogs’ love.

1:52:46
Paleontologist Kirk Johnson explores the dynamic history—and future—of ice at the poles.

53:31
Discover the science behind Leonardo da Vinci's masterpieces—and Mona Lisa's iconic smile.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:25
Can new engineering techniques help prevent deadly bridge collapses?

53:27
Amazing fossils reveal how mammals took over after an asteroid wiped out the dinosaurs.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:32
Discover why scientists and entrepreneurs alike have their sights set on the Moon again.

53:22
In the shadow of Vesuvius and Pompeii, a lesser-known volcano puts Naples at risk.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:34
New technologies are promising a new renaissance in space travel.

53:23
New archeological evidence shows the stunning engineering of the Great Pyramid of Giza.

Unlock with PBS Passport
53:15
Journey to Kīlauea volcano to investigate the eruptions that shook Hawaiʻi in 2018.

53:51
Join scientists as they grab light from across the universe to prove quantum entanglement.