Deflection and fragmentation of near-Earth asteroids

• DOI: 10.1038/360429a0
• Publication Date: 2003-06-12T23:38:17Z
• Authors: Thomas J. Ahrens; Alan W. Harris
• Keywords: Fragmentation; Near-Earth object

The collision with Earth of near-Earth asteroids or comet nuclei poses a potential threat to mankind. Objects about 100 m in diameter could be diverted from an Earth-crossing trajectory by the impact of a rocket-launched mass, but for larger bodies nuclear explosions seem to be the only practical means of deflection. Fragmentation of the body by nuclear charges is less efficient or secure.