Strategies for Stopping a Meteorite from Colliding with a Crowded City

The threat of a large meteorite or asteroid hitting a fully populated city is a scenario that evokes a mix of fear and awe. Despite the common belief that prayer is the only solution, this article explores potential strategies and ongoing efforts to prevent such a cosmic collision.

Current Understanding and Efforts

Thankfully, today, we have more than just ideas and proposals to address such a threat. Organizations like NASA and international bodies like the United Nations have been actively working to identify and mitigate the risk of potentially hazardous asteroids (PHAs). NASA's Near Earth Object (NEO) Earth Close Approaches program tracks near-Earth objects to ensure that the world remains informed about any potential threats.

The UN and International Efforts

A few years ago, a group of astronauts and cosmonauts, known as the Association of Space Explorers, presented a comprehensive plan to the United Nations. This proposal led to the formation of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, which further established the UN International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) and the United Nations Space Missions Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG).

These international bodies have been organizing conferences and practice runs to better understand and prepare for such events. One notable example is the detailed analysis and drills conducted during the 2027 potential asteroid impact scenario. This particular event was used as a training ground to ensure that the global community is prepared for near-term threats.

Technological Solutions

While current technology is not sufficient for immediate action, research and development in this field are ongoing. Specifically, NASA is proposing the Near-Earth Object Surveillance Mission (NEOSM), which would place an infrared (IR) telescope in orbit equipped with a large IR CCD camera cooled by passive cooling systems. This telescope would operate for decades and significantly enhance the ability to detect PHAs.

The ability to detect PHAs early is crucial for planning effective mitigation strategies. With a long enough lead time, sophisticated robotic spacecraft can be designed, built, and launched to rendezvous with the asteroid and alter its trajectory.

Deflection Strategies

The deflection strategies currently being studied involve a range of options, including using kinetic impactors to change the asteroid's path (the Planetary Defense Coordination Office's DART mission is an example) or using gravity tractors to gently alter the asteroid's trajectory without attaining surface contact. These methods require significant technological advancements and are best employed with early detection and planning.

Conclusion

While the idea of praying for safety is a comforting thought, the reality is that we need concrete, scientifically sound strategies in place to protect our cities from asteroid impacts. The ongoing efforts by organizations like NASA and the United Nations are crucial steps in this direction. However, these efforts may not yield immediate results but will certainly contribute to our preparedness and understanding of these cosmic threats.

It is important to stay informed and support research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing our ability to detect and mitigate the impact of potentially hazardous asteroids. Only through such proactive measures can we ensure the safety of our cities and the people within them.