Don’t Look Up: The Science of Near-Earth Objects

Summary

Don’t Look Up, the latest blockbuster movie, tells the story of astronomers discovering a comet heading towards Earth while politicians are slow to respond. Dr. Amy Meinze, a real-life astronomer who consulted on the movie, explains the science behind near-Earth objects. In this article, we dive deeper into the topic of near-Earth objects, including what they are, how they are detected, and what plans are in place in case of a potential impact.

What are near-Earth objects?
How are near-Earth objects detected?
What would happen in case of a near-Earth object impact?
What plans are in place to deal with potential near-Earth object impacts?
How can we reduce the chances of a sudden impact event?

Introduction

The threat of a near-Earth object impact is a topic that has fascinated and frightened humanity for centuries. From science fiction to blockbuster movies, the idea of a catastrophic object hurtling towards our planet is a scary thought. But how realistic is this scenario? And what plans do we have in place in case of a potential impact? In this Q&A, we consult with Dr. Amy Meinze, a real-life astronomer who consulted on the recent movie Don’t Look Up, to get a better understanding of near-Earth objects.

Q&A

What are near-Earth objects?

Near-Earth objects are any asteroids or comets that come within about 30% of the Earth’s distance to the sun. These objects can range in size from a few meters to tens of kilometers, and they can travel at incredible speeds – up to 70 km/s. While the vast majority of near-Earth objects are harmless and pass by our planet without incident, some can pose a serious threat if they were to collide with Earth.

How are near-Earth objects detected?

NASA has a near-Earth object observations program that uses ground-based telescopes and spacecraft to track and study near-Earth objects. The program’s primary goal is to identify any potentially hazardous objects that could pose a risk to Earth. Astronomers look for objects that are close to our planet and that have an orbit that crosses Earth’s orbit. By studying these objects, scientists can better understand their composition and the risks they pose.

What would happen in case of a near-Earth object impact?

The effects of a near-Earth object impact would depend on the size and composition of the object. A small object, such as a few meters in diameter, would likely disintegrate in the atmosphere and cause little to no damage. However, larger objects could potentially cause significant damage or even mass extinction events. The most well-known impact event in history is the one that killed the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. This asteroid was about 10-15 km in diameter and caused a global catastrophe. While the likelihood of such an event happening again is extremely low, the consequences would be astronomical.

What plans are in place to deal with potential near-Earth object impacts?

There are several international efforts in place to deal with potential near-Earth object impacts. The United Nations provides a platform for countries to collaborate and share information about near-Earth objects. NASA’s Near-Earth Object Observations Program detects, tracks, and characterizes near-Earth objects to assess their potential risks. Additionally, the agency is developing a planetary defense system that includes the DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) mission, which aims to deflect an asteroid off course to protect Earth. There are also theoretical methods for dealing with potentially hazardous objects, such as using chemical rockets or nuclear explosions to deflect the object.

How can we reduce the chances of a sudden impact event?

To greatly reduce the chances of a sudden impact event that we wouldn’t know about well in advance, we should take action. This includes increasing the funding for programs such as NASA’s Near-Earth Object Observations Program, which would enable more frequent and detailed observations of near-Earth objects. We can also invest in technology that would allow us to deflect or destroy near-Earth objects in case of a potential impact. While the chances of such an event happening are low, the consequences would be dire, so it is always better to be prepared.

Conclusion

While the idea of a catastrophic near-Earth object impact is scary, it is important to understand the science behind it and what plans we have in place in case such an event were to occur. By investing in programs to detect and track near-Earth objects and developing technologies to deflect or destroy them, we can greatly reduce the chances of a sudden impact event that we wouldn’t know about in advance. While we can’t predict the future, we can certainly take action to prepare for it.