Deflecting asteroids is the best strategy for planetary defense

In recent years, the threat of asteroids has gained significant attention, especially with the devastating implications that past impacts have had on Earth. The book 'How to Kill an Asteroid' by Robin George Andrews discusses this pressing issue, detailing both successes and shortcomings of current planetary defense strategies. Important missions have taken place, such as the NASA DART mission in 2021, which tested the ability to alter the trajectory of an asteroid by sending a spacecraft to impact it. This successful experiment provided valuable insights, though Andrews emphasizes that it is currently the only fully developed defense strategy against asteroid threats. However, the challenges lie not just in technological developments, but in bureaucratic hurdles that hinder funding and approval for asteroid-hunting initiatives. The NEO Surveyor project, a crucial space observatory aimed at detecting near-Earth objects, faced uncertainty following a crucial budget cut in 2022. This situation underscores the fragility of the systems designed to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts. Furthermore, Andrews highlights that asteroid preparedness encompasses much more than technology. It also involves managing the geopolitical, social, and economic anxieties that can emerge upon the detection of a threatening asteroid. For instance, misinformation could lead to insurance scams or a sudden rush to nuclear armament under the guise of preparing to intercept the asteroid. These scenarios create significant social challenges and underscore the importance of clear communication and robust governmental frameworks in times of crisis. Despite these challenges, Andrews maintains a hopeful perspective, urging for reinvestment in planetary defense programs. The willingness of scientists to engage and participate in these efforts signals a collective readiness to face the asteroid threat. The narrative invites readers to consider the importance of advancing research and technology in planetary defense while fostering a calm yet prepared response should a dangerous object be detected in the future.