Science

A rare celestial event featuring the alignment of seven planets will be visible in the UK skies this week, offering a unique spectacle for stargazers until 2040.

A rare celestial event featuring the alignment of seven planets will be visible from the UK on 28 February 2025, offering a unique stargazing opportunity with some planets visible to the naked eye.

NASA has identified a 3.1% chance that asteroid 2024 YR4, measuring 177 feet in diameter, could hit Earth on 22 December 2032. Discovered by the El Sauce Observatory in Chile, this 'city-killer' asteroid poses a significant threat to major cities, though global devastation is unlikely. Continuous monitoring and future observations aim to refine the risk assessment.

NASA has updated the risk assessment for asteroid 2024 YR4, estimating a 3.1% chance of Earth impact in 2032. The 'city killer' asteroid could release energy equivalent to 7.7 megatonnes of TNT, posing significant local destruction risks. Continuous monitoring and data collection are underway to refine predictions and mitigation strategies.

A false earthquake alert sent by Google to Android users in Brazil caused widespread concern and mobilisation on social media. Authorities and experts quickly denied the occurrence of any tremor, leading Google to deactivate the alert system in Brazil and issue an apology.

NASA reports a small but increasing chance of asteroid 2024 YR4 colliding with Earth on 22 December 2032. The asteroid, measuring up to 300 feet across, could cause localised damage but poses no global threat. Continuous monitoring is underway to refine predictions and assess potential deflection efforts.

Asteroid 2024 YR4, identified as potentially hazardous, has a small chance of impacting Earth or the Moon by 2032. Scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory, with new data suggesting a slight possibility of a lunar collision. Efforts to study and mitigate potential threats are ongoing, including the use of the James Webb Space Telescope.

Boom Supersonic's XB-1 prototype jet successfully broke the sound barrier during a test flight above the Mojave Desert, marking a significant step towards reviving supersonic passenger travel with the planned Overture jet.

A rare celestial event featuring the alignment of six planets in our solar system will be visible in the night sky throughout January and February 2025, offering a spectacular view for stargazers.

A rare six-planet alignment, visible from the UK and beyond, offers a stunning celestial display in January and February, with the best views just after sunset. This event, not to be repeated until 2040, includes Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Uranus, and Neptune, with Mercury joining later for a brief seven-planet lineup.