NASA's NEOWISE mission concludes after more than a decade of tracking near-Earth objects

In December 2013, NASA commenced its NEOWISE mission to study near-Earth objects, utilizing the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer spacecraft. This mission aimed to detect and characterize a wide range of asteroids and comets which could potentially threaten Earth. Over time, NEOWISE successfully cataloged a significant number of these near-Earth objects, contributing essential data for planetary defense efforts. The spacecraft operated in a Sun-synchronous orbit to continuously monitor thermal emissions from these celestial bodies, employing cutting-edge cooling systems to enhance detection sensitivity. The NEOWISE mission built upon the legacy of NASA's WISE mission, which ran from late 2009 to 2011, aimed at conducting an all-sky infrared survey. Reactivated after a hibernation period, NEOWISE maintained a specific focus on near-Earth asteroids, which are closer and larger than its original targets. The spacecraft ultimately concluded its mission in August, leading to its descent and eventual reentry into Earth's atmosphere on November 1, 2023. Although the mission has ended, scientists have gained valuable insights into the types of faint objects that need further detection and study. In response to the challenges revealed by NEOWISE, NASA is developing the next-generation NEO Surveyor space telescope, designed to survey and identify hundreds of thousands of near-Earth objects, including smaller ones about 33 feet in diameter. The advancements and knowledge garnered from the NEOWISE mission will be instrumental in enhancing planetary defense and understanding the risks posed by a diverse range of celestial bodies. As such missions evolve, the focus on planetary defense remains a vital aspect of astronomical research. NASA's commitment to planetary defense continues as the agency strives to protect Earth from potential impacts by asteroids and other near-Earth objects. The conclusions drawn from the NEOWISE mission will aid in planning the objectives and methodologies applied in future missions, emphasizing the importance of monitoring spatial objects that could pose significant threats to the planet.