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ISRO Chief S. Somanath warns of the possibility of an asteroid hitting Earth.
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He emphasizes the need for global preparedness and development of technology to deflect asteroids.
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Experiments are underway to detect asteroids that may hit Earth within a year.
ISRO Chief S. Somanath has sounded a warning about the possibility of an asteroid hitting Earth, citing the example of a recent asteroid impact on Jupiter. He emphasized that such events are real and can have catastrophic consequences, including extinction-scale events that can wipe out most species. Somanath called for global preparedness and development of technology to detect and deflect asteroids, noting that India, as a leading space nation, has a responsibility to take the lead in this effort.
Somanath’s warning comes as a gigantic asteroid, Apophis, is set to pass by Earth in 2029 and again in 2039. While the asteroid is not expected to hit Earth, Somanath’s comments highlight the need for vigilance and preparedness. Experiments are currently underway at ISRO to detect asteroids that may hit Earth within a year, and the organization is working on developing the technology to deflect them.
The ISRO Chief’s warning is a timely reminder of the potential dangers that asteroids pose to Earth. As the world’s space agencies work together to develop the technology to detect and deflect asteroids, Somanath’s call to action is a reminder that preparedness is key to preventing catastrophic consequences.
