Earth-approaching asteroids

Definition

Earth-approaching asteroids are celestial objects whose orbits bring them close to Earth's orbit. They pose potential risks for impact and are closely monitored by astronomers for planetary defense.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Earth-approaching asteroids fall into two primary categories: Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) and Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs).
2. The Torino Scale is used to categorize the impact hazard of Earth-approaching asteroids.
3. NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office (PDCO) is responsible for detecting, tracking, and characterizing these asteroids.
4. The majority of Earth-approaching asteroids originate from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
5. Missions like NASA's DART aim to test methods for deflecting potentially dangerous asteroids.

Review Questions

• What are the two primary categories of Earth-approaching asteroids?
• Which organization is responsible for monitoring Earth-approaching asteroids?
• What scale is used to assess the impact hazard of these asteroids?

Related terms

Near-Earth Object (NEO): An asteroid or comet with an orbit that brings it into proximity with Earth's orbit.

Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA): An asteroid with an orbit that brings it within a certain distance of Earth and has sufficient size to cause significant damage in the event of an impact.

Torino Scale:

A method for categorizing the impact hazard associated with near-Earth objects based on their probability of collision and potential consequences.