🛡️ Could This Be Prevented?
With sufficient warning time, we have several proven deflection methods:
Kinetic Impactor
Ram the asteroid with a spacecraft to change its trajectory. NASA's DART mission successfully demonstrated this in 2022. Requires 5-10 years warning.
Gravity Tractor
Use a spacecraft's gravity to slowly pull the asteroid off course over months or years. Requires 10-20 years warning.
Nuclear Standoff
Detonate a nuclear device near (not on) the asteroid to vaporize surface material and change trajectory. Last resort option requiring 1-5 years warning.
The Key: Early detection! The earlier we find a threat, the easier and cheaper it is to deflect. This is why NASA's NEO Surveyor mission and ground-based tracking programs are so important.