Washington D.C., June 5, 2025 — An asteroid that previously sparked concerns over a potential Earth impact has now been projected to possibly collide with the Moon in 2032, according to updated data released by NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS).
The asteroid, designated 2023 JL1, gained attention in mid-2023 when preliminary calculations indicated a small but notable chance of it hitting Earth. With an estimated diameter ranging between 30 to 50 meters, the asteroid was monitored closely due to the possible damage it could cause upon impact. However, NASA has since ruled out any danger to Earth following refined observations and trajectory modeling.
According to the latest estimates, 2023 JL1 now has a 1-in-80,000 chance of impacting the Moon during its close approach in late 2032. While the probability remains low, the possibility of a lunar collision has opened up new avenues for scientific research.
Speaking on the development, Dr. Kelly Fast, manager at NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office, said, “While this asteroid no longer poses a threat to Earth, a potential impact on the Moon offers a unique scientific opportunity. A collision could provide valuable data on crater formation, impact physics, and lunar surface composition.”
If an impact does occur, scientists estimate that it could create a crater several hundred meters wide. Although the Moon lacks an atmosphere and life, such an event would still be significant, especially for ongoing lunar exploration programs. Observatories both on Earth and in orbit around the Moon would likely be mobilized to observe and study the phenomenon in real-time.
The asteroid’s revised path was determined after months of continuous monitoring by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and multiple international observatories. Radar imaging and optical tracking played a crucial role in updating the asteroid’s orbit, shifting the focus from Earth to the Moon.
The news has sparked widespread interest on social media, with hashtags like #Asteroid2032 and #MoonImpact trending across platforms. The public reaction, however, has largely been one of curiosity rather than alarm.
NASA has assured the public that there is no cause for concern, emphasizing that the asteroid poses no risk to Earth. The agency also highlighted the importance of advanced tracking systems and global collaboration in identifying and monitoring near-Earth objects.
“With improved observation capabilities, we’re now able to predict such events years in advance and prepare scientifically,” Dr. Fast added. “This is a great example of planetary defense in action—not just protecting Earth, but enhancing our understanding of the solar system.”
NASA and other global space agencies, including the European Space Agency (ESA), will continue to track the asteroid closely in the coming years. Any changes in its trajectory or impact likelihood will be updated through official channels.
