China Researchers Propose Nuclear Defense Against Asteroids

Chinese researchers have proposed the use of nuclear weapons as the most effective method to prevent potential asteroid collisions with Earth, highlighting that no current technology could achieve this without such measures. Their study published in the journal SCIENTIA SINICA Technologica emphasizes the urgency of developing rapid-launch nuclear capabilities that can target asteroids within a critical timeframe of seven days to one month, with a precision of less than 100 meters. They recognize the significant risks posed by undetected near-Earth objects, as evidenced by past incidents such as the 2013 Chelyabinsk meteor explosion. The researchers urge governments to invest in a global nuclear-based planetary defense system, despite the challenges posed by existing international treaties and potential fallout concerns. They stress that the actual number of hazardous asteroids may far exceed current estimates, necessitating a proactive approach to planetary defense. Overall, the researchers call for long-term strategies to address what they describe as a looming doomsday threat to humanity.