Simulating Nuclear Deflection to Protect Planets: How Scientists are Advancing our Planetary Defense Strategies
A new study published in Nature Astronomy has advanced our understanding of planetary defense strategies against potential asteroid impacts. Scientists from the University of Southampton have conducted nuclear deflection simulations which show that a small nuclear bomb could be used to push an asteroid off its collision course with Earth. Despite the many risks associated with nuclear explosions, this research suggests that it may be a viable option for preventing asteroid impacts. The simulations indicate that a small nuclear explosion could be used to deflect an asteroid up to 10 times the size of the one that caused the Tunguska event in 1908.
source: Phys.org