NEOWISE

Definition

NEOWISE is a space telescope that was repurposed to detect and study near-Earth objects, including asteroids and comets. It plays a crucial role in understanding the cosmic influences on Earth's evolution and in the ongoing efforts to detect and defend against potential asteroid impacts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. NEOWISE was originally launched in 2009 as the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) mission, but was later repurposed in 2013 to focus on the detection and study of near-Earth objects.
2. NEOWISE has discovered thousands of previously unknown asteroids and comets, providing valuable data for understanding the composition, size, and orbits of these objects.
3. The data collected by NEOWISE helps scientists better assess the potential risks posed by near-Earth objects and inform planetary defense strategies.
4. NEOWISE's infrared sensors allow it to detect even dark or camouflaged objects that might be difficult to spot using visible light telescopes.
5. The NEOWISE mission has been extended multiple times due to its continued scientific value and importance in the ongoing efforts to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts.

Review Questions

• Explain how the NEOWISE telescope contributes to our understanding of the cosmic influences on the evolution of Earth.
  • The NEOWISE telescope plays a crucial role in studying near-Earth objects, such as asteroids and comets, which can have significant impacts on the evolution of Earth's environment and climate. By detecting and characterizing these objects, NEOWISE provides valuable data that helps scientists better understand the potential threats they pose and how past cosmic events, like asteroid impacts, may have shaped the development of life on our planet. The information gathered by NEOWISE informs our understanding of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the solar system and its influence on the long-term evolution of Earth.
• Describe how the data collected by NEOWISE contributes to planetary defense strategies.
  • The NEOWISE telescope is a key component of the ongoing efforts to detect and mitigate the potential threats posed by near-Earth objects. By identifying and tracking the size, composition, and orbits of asteroids and comets, NEOWISE provides critical information that helps scientists assess the risks they pose and develop effective planetary defense strategies. This data is used to improve early warning systems, plan potential deflection or disruption missions, and coordinate international efforts to protect the planet from potentially devastating impacts. The comprehensive data collected by NEOWISE is essential for informing decision-makers and guiding the development of advanced technologies and protocols to safeguard Earth from the dangers of near-Earth objects.
• Evaluate the significance of the NEOWISE mission in the broader context of our understanding of the solar system and its impact on the evolution of life on Earth.
  • The NEOWISE mission represents a crucial step forward in our understanding of the complex and dynamic relationship between the solar system and the evolution of life on Earth. By focusing on the detection and characterization of near-Earth objects, NEOWISE provides invaluable data that helps scientists piece together the history of cosmic events that have shaped the development of our planet. This information not only informs our efforts to protect Earth from potential asteroid impacts, but also sheds light on the role that extraterrestrial phenomena, such as comet and asteroid collisions, may have played in the emergence and evolution of life. The insights gained from NEOWISE's observations contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the interconnected nature of the solar system and the biosphere, allowing us to better anticipate and mitigate the cosmic influences that have the potential to significantly impact the future of life on Earth.

Related terms

Near-Earth Object (NEO): An asteroid or comet whose orbit brings it into close proximity with Earth, defined as within 1.3 astronomical units of the Sun.

Planetary Defense: The coordinated efforts to detect, track, and mitigate the potential threats posed by near-Earth objects that could impact the planet.

Comet: A small, icy body in the solar system that orbits the Sun and releases gas and dust to form a visible atmosphere and often a tail.