planetary defense
China to target near-Earth object 2020 PN1 for asteroid deflection mission
China has set its sights on near-Earth object 202 PN1 as the target for a combined asteroid deflection and observation test mission due to launch in 2026.
China to conduct asteroid deflection test around 2025
China will aim to change the trajectory of a potentially threatening asteroid with a kinetic impactor test as part of plans for a planetary defense system.
Planetary science decadal endorses Mars sample return, outer planets missions
A study outlining priorities in planetary science for the next decade backs continued efforts to return samples from Mars while recommending NASA pursue missions to the planet Uranus and an icy moon of Saturn.
NASA and Space Force cooperate on near Earth object data
NASA has hailed an agreement with the Space Force to share information on near Earth object impacts as a key step forward in planetary defense, even as the agency defers work on a mission it says is critical to tracking such objects.
NASA ready to launch DART planetary defense demonstration mission
NASA is ready to launch its first mission devoted to planetary defense, a spacecraft that will collide with the moon of a small asteroid to test the ability to deflect it.
NASA delays launch of planetary defense mission
NASA will delay the launch of a mission designed to test one technique for deflecting a potentially hazardous asteroid, although that delay won’t affect the spacecraft’s arrival at its target.
Arecibo replacement could support space situational awareness
A proposal to replace the giant radio telescope at Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico with a new facility suggests it could be used for tracking space objects as well as for scientific research.
NASA weighing options for future planetary radar capabilities after Arecibo
With the Arecibo radio telescope set to be decommissioned, NASA is beginning to consider options for future planetary radar capabilities, including potential cooperation with the U.S. Space Force.
Arecibo damage to take months to repair
A NASA official warned it may take several months to repair damage to the Arecibo radio telescope in Puerto Rico caused by a broken cable.
NASA planetary defense efforts continue during pandemic
NASA’s small but high-profile planetary defense program has overcome disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic to continue searching for potentially hazardous near Earth objects.
NASA to develop mission to search for near-Earth asteroids
After years of study and failed proposals, NASA has decided to proceed with development of a space-based telescope to search for near-Earth asteroids.
Scientists lobby NASA for additional planetary defense missions
Scientists used an appearance by the NASA administrator at a conference April 29 to press him to fund additional missions that support the agency’s work in discovering and characterizing near Earth objects.
ESA plans second attempt at planetary defense mission
A year and a half after ministers declined to fund one mission to an asteroid, the European Space Agency is working on a second such mission that could support planetary defense efforts.
