Asteroid 2024 YR4 is going to miss Earth, but the story doesn’t end there
The discovery of near-Earth asteroids with new capabilities such as powerful telescopes and the upcoming launch of the NEO Surveyor and Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will significantly increase the number of asteroid discoveries. These new tools have the potential to find 10 or even 100 times more objects like 2024 YR4, providing a better understanding of the Solar System's small rocks whizzing around. The data collected from these discoveries can help refine asteroid trajectories and improve the accuracy of threat assessments.
- As humanity becomes increasingly aware of the presence of near-Earth asteroids, it's essential to consider the long-term implications of having a more comprehensive understanding of these space objects on our daily lives and global security.
- How will governments and international organizations coordinate efforts to develop strategies for asteroid detection, tracking, and potential deflection or disruption missions in light of this new era of asteroid discovery?