Efforts to protect Earth from asteroid impacts have advance, but significant gaps remain in planetary defence systems. Robin George Andrews book How to Kill an Asteroid delves into the complexities of safeguarding the planet from potentially catastrophic asteroid collisions, as per a report.
As per the book, the key strategy involves deflecting asteroids from their trajectories rather than destroying them, an approach test by NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) in 2022.
This mission mark a major milestone in space defence, successfully altering the orbit of the asteroid moonlet Dimorphos.
According to report, NASA’s DART spacecraft demonstrate the feasibility of redirecting a non-threatening asteroid during its mission.
As report, the spacecraft collide with Dimorphos on 26th September, 2022, changing its orbital path.
This first-of-its-kind success showcase a viable strategy to prevent future impacts, as said in the mission’s post-analysis.
But, experts caution that DART represents the only proven method, highlighting the need for further advancements.
Planetary defence faces substantial challenges, particularly in detection capabilities.
Sources said that the propose Near-Earth Object Surveyor (NEO Surveyor), design to enhance asteroid detection, has face delays due to budgetary cuts.
The loss of key observational tools, such as the Arecibo Observatory, has also hinder monitoring efforts.
These setbacks, as highlight by researchers, underscore the urgent need for investment in detection technologies.
Addressing asteroid threats extends beyond scientific and technological measures.
Experts have raise concerns about potential geopolitical and societal disruptions following asteroid warnings.
Scenarios such as misinformation, economic instability, and political tensions have cited as potential consequences, adding complexity to planetary defence planning.
As challenges remain, Robin George Andrews book underscores the necessity for global cooperation and reinvestment in asteroid preparedness to prevent future catastrophes.
Scientists and policymakers continue to advocate for expanded efforts, ensuring readiness to counter celestial threats.
