Asteroid Avengers: Current Techniques In Planetary Defense

Introduction

Asteroids are remnants of the formation of our solar system, and their study is of great significance for understanding the history of the universe. However, their impact on Earth can be catastrophic if they collide with our planet. Therefore, it is crucial to develop and implement effective planetary defense strategies to protect our planet from asteroid impacts. In this article, we will discuss current techniques in planetary defense that are being used to mitigate the effects of a potential asteroid collision.

Space-based Detection and Tracking

Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (NEOWISE)

NEOWISE was launched in 2009 and has been responsible for detecting thousands of asteroids. It uses infrared telescopes to detect heat generated by near-Earth objects and has a unique capability to track previously undiscovered asteroids. NEOWISE has also contributed significantly to determining the physical properties of asteroids such as their size, composition, and shape. This information is essential for planning planetary defense strategies.

NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO)

The PDCO is a division of NASA that tracks and monitors asteroids that could potentially collide with Earth. The office is responsible for coordinating efforts between government agencies, international organizations, and the scientific community to assess the severity of potential asteroid strikes and to coordinate responses. The PDCO is also responsible for developing and testing mitigation techniques and technologies.

Ground-Based Observation and Tracking

Ground-based observation involves using telescopes to track asteroids and determine their trajectories. There are numerous observatories around the world dedicated to this task, including the Pan-STARRS Observatory in Hawaii, which has been responsible for discovering more than 90% of near-Earth objects. Ground-based observation is an essential technique for detecting and tracking asteroids, and it works in tandem with space-based detection to provide a comprehensive view of the asteroid population.

Planetary Defense Strategies

Kinetic Impact Deflection

Kinetic impact deflection involves slamming a spacecraft into an asteroid with enough force to change its trajectory. This technique was first tested in 2005, when NASA's Deep Impact spacecraft collided with Comet Tempel 1. The technique has also been proposed for use against potentially hazardous asteroids. The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART), scheduled for launch in 2021, will test the kinetic impact deflection technique on the asteroid Didymos. If successful, this technique could potentially be used to deflect larger asteroids that could pose a significant threat to Earth.

Gravity Tractor

The gravity tractor is a spacecraft that uses gravity to alter the course of an asteroid. The spacecraft would hover near the asteroid, using its own gravitational pull to slowly pull the asteroid off its collision course. This technique is ideal for smaller asteroids that cannot be deflected by kinetic impact deflection.

Nuclear Explosion

Nuclear explosion involves detonating a nuclear device near an asteroid. The energy released from the explosion would vaporize the surface of the asteroid and create a cloud of debris that would push the asteroid off course. The technique has been proposed as a last resort option for deflecting a large asteroid that could cause a catastrophic impact. However, the use of nuclear weapons in space is highly controversial, and there are significant risks associated with the technique.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the Chelyabinsk meteor and Tunguska event?

  The Chelyabinsk meteor was a small asteroid that entered Earth's atmosphere and exploded over Russia in 2013, causing significant damage and injuries. The Tunguska event was a much larger asteroid impact that occurred in Siberia in 1908, which flattened trees over an area of 770 square miles.

• What is the current state of the asteroid detection and tracking capabilities?

  The current detection and tracking capabilities are primarily based on ground-based observation and space-based telescopic surveys. The NEOWISE mission and the PDCO are significant contributors to space-based detection and tracking, while observatories around the world are responsible for ground-based observation.

• How likely is an asteroid impact with Earth?

  The probability of a catastrophic asteroid impact with Earth is low, but the consequences could be severe. It is estimated that asteroids large enough to cause significant damage strike Earth every few thousand years.

• What can individuals do to prepare for an asteroid impact?

  Individuals can stay informed about potential asteroid threats through reputable sources such as the PDCO and FEMA. In the event of an impact, individuals should follow emergency procedures and evacuate the impacted area if necessary.

• What are the chances of a successful planetary defense mission?

  The success of a planetary defense mission depends on numerous factors, including the size and trajectory of the asteroid, the technique used, and the resources available. However, continued research and development of planetary defense strategies can increase the likelihood of success in the event of an asteroid impact.

Conclusion

Asteroids are a significant threat to Earth, but current techniques in planetary defense show promise for mitigating the impact of potential collisions. Space-based detection and tracking, ground-based observation, and various mitigation techniques such as kinetic impact deflection and the gravity tractor are being developed and tested. Continued research and development in planetary defense will be crucial for protecting our planet from the potentially catastrophic effects of asteroid impacts.

If you have any thoughts or questions about planetary defense, please leave a comment below. And don't forget to share this article on social media to help raise awareness of the importance of asteroid detection and mitigation.

Additional Resources

For more information on planetary defense, please visit the following links:

• NASA Planetary Defense Coordination Office
• Center for Near-Earth Object Studies
• B612 Foundation

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