Dealing with the threat of an asteroid striking the earth - an AIAA Position Paper
Abstract
Policy issues regarding the possibility of an earth-asteroid collision are discussed. The class of objects which periodically cross the orbit of the earth is characterized, and it is estimated that there are more than 1000 additional undiscovered earth-crossing asteroids with diameters of 0.5 mile or more. The probability of a life-destroying asteroid impact is shown to be low but finite, the average risk to an individual human being comparable to that on an airplane trip. Positive action to mitigate the effects of a possible impact is urged, starting with the establishment of an international program, led jointly by the U.S. and the Soviet Union, to detect earth-crossing asteroids and determine their orbits. It is suggested that observations precise enough to permit the prediction of impacts with some confidence could be obtained with a few well-placed 1-m F/1.5 Schmidt telescopes. Also recommended are studies to identify technologies capable of deflecting or destroying potentially damaging asteroids.
- Publication:
-
Washington
- Pub Date:
- 1990
- Bibcode:
- 1990aiaa.reptQ.....
- Keywords:
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- Asteroids;
- Earth Environment;
- Hypervelocity Impact;
- Impact Damage;
- Damage Assessment;
- International Cooperation;
- Threat Evaluation;
- Space Sciences (General)