Asteroid Close Approach and NASA's Planetary Defense

What is a near-Earth object (NEO)?

• An object that is always visible from Earth

• An object that orbits the Moon

• An object that could pass by Earth within 30 million miles

• An object that is part of the asteroid belt

How close does an object need to be for NASA to start monitoring it closely?

• Within 1 million miles of Earth

• Within 20 million miles of Earth

• Within 10 million miles of Earth

• Within 5 million miles of Earth

Why is it important for NASA to track the movement of near-Earth objects?

• To use them as stepping stones for space travel

• To collect samples for research

• To predict their trajectories and assess potential impact threats

• To ensure they do not block sunlight

What is the role of NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office?

• To launch satellites to other planets

• To maintain watch for asteroids and comets coming close to Earth

• To explore the surface of Mars

• To study the Sun's activity

What is one of the techniques NASA is working on to deflect an asteroid?

• Using lasers to vaporize it

• Launching a spacecraft to collide with it

• Building a large wall in space

• Using a giant magnet