This is how NASA and ESA will stop an Asteroid from hitting Earth! Check out the 'Blueprint'
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
A Decade Since Chelyabinsk
It has been ten years since the Chelyabinsk asteroid explosion over Russia, prompting global action to address asteroid threats akin to the scenario depicted in the film "Armageddon."
Founding of Key Organizations
The incident led to the establishment of two pivotal bodies: the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) and the Space Mission Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG).
Role of IAWN
Coordinated by NASA, the IAWN comprises experts monitoring and modelling near-Earth objects (NEOs), assessing potential impact scenarios and severity.
SMPAG's Mandate
Chaired by the (ESA), SMPAG evaluates the feasibility of spacecraft missions to mitigate threats from asteroids larger than 50 meters.
ESA's Blueprint
This is how ESA plans to stop the Armageddon
Focus on Asteroid Apophis
Recent discussions within SMPAG revolve around the asteroid Apophis, a 350-meter celestial body set to approach Earth closely on April 13, 2029.
ESA's Hera Mission
ESA is preparing the Hera mission to study Apophis closely, following the success of NASA's DART mission, which tested asteroid deflection techniques.
Importance of Early Detection
The Minor Planet Center and ESA's monitoring efforts catalogue thousands of NEOs, with upcoming missions like NASA's NEO Surveyor enhancing detection capabilities.
Addressing Blind Spots
To counter the Sun's glare, ESA proposes the NEOMIR space telescope, aiming to detect infrared signatures emitted by asteroids.
Enhancing Planetary Defence
Through collaborative efforts and technological innovation, Earth is better equipped than ever to confront celestial dangers, ensuring the safety of our planet.