On Monday, September 29, 2025, NASA revealed its plan to deploy a nuclear detonation to destroy asteroid 2024 YR4 before it reaches the vicinity of the Moon. The asteroid, which poses a potential threat to Earth, is scheduled to pass close to the Moon in the near future.

The decision to use a nuclear device stems from the asteroid's size and trajectory, which could cause significant damage if it were to impact Earth. NASA officials stated that the nuclear detonation would occur in space, targeting the asteroid to break it into smaller, less dangerous fragments.

NASA's plan involves launching a spacecraft equipped with a nuclear charge to intercept asteroid 2024 YR4. The mission aims to detonate the device at a calculated distance from the asteroid to maximize the effectiveness of the blast while minimizing risks to nearby celestial bodies.

The asteroid 2024 YR4 was first detected by astronomers earlier this year, and subsequent tracking confirmed its trajectory toward the Earth-Moon system. NASA's planetary defense team has been monitoring the asteroid closely to determine the best course of action.

The use of nuclear technology for asteroid deflection is part of NASA's broader planetary defense strategy, which includes detection, tracking, and mitigation of near-Earth objects that could pose a threat to the planet.

NASA emphasized that the nuclear detonation will be carefully controlled and executed with international cooperation to ensure safety and compliance with space treaties. The agency is coordinating with global partners to monitor the mission's progress and potential outcomes.

This mission marks a significant step in planetary defense efforts, demonstrating NASA's commitment to protecting Earth from extraterrestrial hazards through advanced technology and proactive measures.