How Should We Prepare for Potential Asteroid Collisions?

In summary, The small asteroid Apophis will be close to Earth within the Earth's satellite orbits, but it is not expected to have an extinction level impact. There are potential plans for deflection methods such as gravity tractors and atomic bombs, but no concrete action has been taken. Governments are not taking this issue seriously and there is a need for a global collaborative effort to prepare for future catastrophes. Suggestions include implementing a global tax system to fund projects for Earth's safety. Specifics on how to do this can be found through a forum search. A photo of asteroid Ryugu by the Japanese lander Hayabusa-2 is available, and there is a discussion on how to display a clipboard image instead of just a link
  • #1
dsaun777
296
39
I recently heard in the news that the small asteroid Apophis will be so close to Earth it will be within the Earth's satellite orbits. This asteroid will likely not hit earth, even if it did it wouldn't have an extinction level impact. But there will come a day when we will have to face off with a big one.

What method of deflection do you think is best?
I have heard of potential plans of deflecting asteroids such as gravity tractors, atomic bombs etc... but these are just ideas not action.

Why aren't governments taking this more seriously? How come we are not preparing for massive catastrophes more seriously? Don't you think this should be a global collaborative effort across nations? We need to start acting like a responsible race and prepare for our future.

There should be a global tax system or something put in place to fund massive projects for the Earth's safety. Asteroids are just one of many global catastrophes that could use the focus of the worlds' scientists and engineers.
 
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  • #2
dsaun777 said:
We need to start acting like a responsible race and prepare for our future.
Yeah, good luck with that.

As for specifics about how to do it, I suggest a forum search. It's a topic that has been discussed several times.
 
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Related to How Should We Prepare for Potential Asteroid Collisions?

What is an asteroid collision?

An asteroid collision refers to the impact of an asteroid with another celestial body, such as a planet or moon. This can result in significant damage and destruction.

Why is asteroid collision prevention important?

Asteroid collision prevention is important because it can help protect our planet and its inhabitants from potential catastrophic events. By identifying and tracking potentially hazardous asteroids, we can take measures to deflect or destroy them before they reach Earth.

How do scientists detect and track potentially hazardous asteroids?

Scientists use a variety of methods to detect and track potentially hazardous asteroids, including ground-based telescopes, space-based telescopes, and radar imaging. They also use mathematical models to predict the trajectory of these asteroids.

What methods are used for asteroid collision prevention?

There are several methods that scientists are exploring for asteroid collision prevention, including nuclear explosions, kinetic impactors, gravity tractors, and solar sails. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best approach may depend on the specific asteroid and its trajectory.

How likely is an asteroid collision with Earth?

The likelihood of an asteroid collision with Earth is relatively low, but it is still a potential threat. NASA estimates that there are about 25,000 near-Earth asteroids that are at least 140 meters in size, and they continue to discover new ones each year. However, with advanced technology and early detection, the chances of a catastrophic asteroid collision can be greatly reduced.

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