We could need ten years to stop any asteroid hitting Earth

NASA and other agencies simulated an asteroid impact scenario, revealing that current technology cannot prevent an asteroid from hitting Earth if detected too late. Experts suggest a minimum of five to ten years is needed to study and mitigate such threats. Legislation requires NASA to track 90% of large Near Earth objects by 2021, but only 40% have been tracked. Potential mitigation strategies include using explosives, lasers, or spacecraft to alter an asteroid's path, all requiring years to implement.

What was the main conclusion of the NASA-led simulation regarding asteroid impact prevention?

• Current spacecraft can easily prevent asteroid impacts.

• No spacecraft can currently prevent an asteroid impact if detected late.

• Asteroids are not a threat to Earth.

• Asteroids can be stopped with minimal preparation.

According to experts, how many years are needed to effectively study and mitigate an asteroid threat?

• 1 to 2 years

• 5 to 10 years

• 3 to 4 years

• 11 to 15 years

What percentage of Near Earth objects had NASA tracked by 2021?

• 40%

• 50%

• 90%

• 75%

Which of the following is NOT a proposed method to mitigate an asteroid threat?

• Using explosives to break it into smaller pieces

• Using lasers to vaporize it

• Sending a spacecraft to change its trajectory

• Building a large wall in space

What is the legislative goal set for NASA regarding Near Earth objects?

• To find 100% of all asteroids

• To track 90% of Near Earth objects 140 meters or larger

• To build a spacecraft capable of destroying asteroids

• To eliminate all asteroid threats by 2021