Asteroids Closest to Earth: Opportunities and Threats

Asteroids are massive rocky and metallic bodies that orbit the Sun. At times, they pass dangerously close to Earth—bringing both valuable opportunities for study and potential risks to our planet.

What Are Near-Earth Asteroids?

Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs) are objects that approach Earth’s orbit. Their sizes range from just a few meters to several hundred kilometers. While most pass by safely, there is always a small chance that one could collide with Earth.

Historical Events

The most well-known modern case is the Chelyabinsk meteor in 2013, which exploded over Russia and injured more than a thousand people. That was a relatively small object. However, an asteroid several hundred meters wide could cause catastrophic damage if it were to strike Earth.

How Are Asteroids Monitored?

NASA and ESA run continuous monitoring programs to track asteroid movements. Specialized telescopes and radar systems map their orbits to identify any potential impact risks well in advance.

Potential Dangers and Defense

Scientists are already developing technologies to alter an asteroid’s trajectory. In 2022, the DART mission proved successful—a spacecraft deliberately impacted an asteroid, slightly changing its orbit. This marked the first practical step toward planetary defense.

Conclusion

Asteroids that come close to Earth represent a serious challenge for civilization. Yet modern science is providing us with the tools that may prove decisive in the future. The ultimate question remains:

👉 Will humanity be able to defend Earth in time against the threat of a future asteroid impact?