NASA's largest gap is not knowing the whole population of Non-Earth Objects. Researchers advocate for an infrared space telescope, like NEOSurveyor launching in 2027, to address this gap.
Despite challenges in characterizing and diverting asteroids, NASA's DART mission in 2022 demonstrated the potential to change their orbits with an impactor, raising hopes for future defense strategies.
The complexity lies in executing costly and time-consuming missions to mitigate asteroid threats, coupled with difficulties in securing necessary funding and support from political leadership.
Plans for addressing asteroid threats include a U.S.-led flyby mission followed by a diversion program, highlighting the significant cost and strategic considerations involved in safeguarding against potential impacts.
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