The discovery of asteroid 2024 YR4 has sparked a wave of media sensationalism, with headlines warning of an impending disaster in 2032. Social media is flooded with doomsday predictions, exaggerated speculations, and panic-driven narratives. While the truth is far less dramatic, the heightened public interest raises important questions about planetary defence. In reality, recent assessments have lowered the probability of impact on December 22, 2032. However, the mere possibility of an asteroid collision, however small, always presents an opportunity to examine Earth's preparedness. Let's learn about YR4, its trajectory, the level of threat it poses, and the defence mechanisms available if such an asteroid were on a collision course with Earth. Characteristics of Asteroid 2024 YR4 Discovery and Classification : YR4 was discovered in 2024 and is classified as a near-Earth asteroid (NEA) . It belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids, known for their Earth-crossing orbits. Size ...