How Should We Prepare for Potential Asteroid Collisions?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the need for global preparedness against potential asteroid collisions, specifically mentioning the asteroid Apophis and its close approach to Earth. Participants express concern over the lack of serious governmental action and advocate for collaborative international efforts to develop asteroid deflection methods, such as gravity tractors and nuclear devices. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of funding and prioritizing planetary defense initiatives to safeguard humanity from future catastrophic events.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of asteroid deflection methods, including gravity tractors and nuclear options.
  • Familiarity with global collaboration frameworks for disaster preparedness.
  • Knowledge of current asteroid tracking and monitoring technologies.
  • Awareness of funding mechanisms for large-scale scientific projects.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effectiveness of gravity tractors in asteroid deflection.
  • Explore the implications of using nuclear devices for planetary defense.
  • Investigate international treaties and agreements on asteroid impact prevention.
  • Learn about current asteroid monitoring systems and their capabilities.
USEFUL FOR

Scientists, policymakers, disaster preparedness professionals, and anyone interested in planetary defense strategies against asteroid threats.

dsaun777
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I recently heard in the news that the small asteroid Apophis will be so close to Earth it will be within the Earth's satellite orbits. This asteroid will likely not hit earth, even if it did it wouldn't have an extinction level impact. But there will come a day when we will have to face off with a big one.

What method of deflection do you think is best?
I have heard of potential plans of deflecting asteroids such as gravity tractors, atomic bombs etc... but these are just ideas not action.

Why aren't governments taking this more seriously? How come we are not preparing for massive catastrophes more seriously? Don't you think this should be a global collaborative effort across nations? We need to start acting like a responsible race and prepare for our future.

There should be a global tax system or something put in place to fund massive projects for the Earth's safety. Asteroids are just one of many global catastrophes that could use the focus of the worlds' scientists and engineers.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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dsaun777 said:
We need to start acting like a responsible race and prepare for our future.
Yeah, good luck with that.

As for specifics about how to do it, I suggest a forum search. It's a topic that has been discussed several times.
 

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