Scientists today are unprepared to do anything at all about an asteroid bigger than 460 feet. If one of these city-killer asteroids was headed toward an Earth impact today, we might only have time to evacuate certain populated areas. That is assuming a path could be determined by visual images, radar and other remote sensing observations.
In 2019, a city-killer sized asteroid passed within 45,000 miles of Earth, with scientists having only a few days’ warning of the flyby. Subsequently, in 2020, an asteroid the size of a car came within 1,830 miles of Earth, the closest any known space rock has come without crashing. Scientists spotted it only about six hours before it passed Earth. To improve asteroid detection, we must invest in advanced telescopes and space-based observation systems, enhance international collaboration for comprehensive sky surveys, develop early warning systems, and allocate resources for ongoing monitoring and research. Additionally, promoting public awareness and support for asteroid detection initiatives is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of our planet.
To improve our ability to detect asteroids, several strategies can be employed based on the available research:
1. Advanced Sensors and Telescopes
Developing and deploying advanced sensors and telescopes, such as the Near Earth Object Camera (NEOCam) sensor, which is a new infrared-light detector designed to improve the performance and efficiency of asteroid detection[1].
2. Innovative Algorithms
Creating and implementing innovative algorithms, like the one developed by astronomers at the University of Washington, which can scan images of the sky to detect potentially hazardous asteroids. This algorithm requires only two images of the same part of the sky per night, making the likelihood of detection far greater[2].
3. Space-Based Observation Systems
Investing in space-based observation systems, such as NASA’s upcoming NEO Surveyor mission, a new infrared space telescope designed to discover 90% of asteroids 460 feet (140 meters) in size or larger within a decade of being launched[5].
4. International Collaboration
Enhancing international collaboration for comprehensive sky surveys to ensure a more thorough and coordinated approach to asteroid detection.
5. Early Warning Systems
Developing early warning systems that can provide timely alerts about potential asteroid threats.
6. Public Awareness and Support
Promoting public awareness and support for asteroid detection initiatives to ensure sustained funding and resources for ongoing monitoring and research.
By implementing these strategies, we can significantly enhance our ability to detect and track asteroids, ultimately improving our ability to protect our planet from potential impacts.
Citations
[1] https://www.rochester.edu/newscenter/new-sensor-could-help-detect-asteroids-near-earth/
[2] https://www.opb.org/article/2023/09/25/all-science-no-fiction-northwest-roundup-asteriods-ancient-humans-sludge-algae-allergies/
[3] https://www.planetary.org/articles/asteroid-deflection-techniques-to-save-the-earth
[4] https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA259383.pdf
[5] https://science.nasa.gov/mission/neo-surveyor/
