Scientists call for a review of the mission, designed to deflect an asteroid strike from the Earth. AIDA (impact and asteroid deformation evaluation) is an important project if we are going to guarantee protection for our home.
The mission has moved to phase B, but still needs final confirmation. DART's goal is to hit Didim asteroid with a vehicle. This should either destroy it or change the trajectory.
Europe failed last year when ministers turned down € 250 million in funding.
More than a bomb
Time is ticking and no matter how much we hope for luck, but space is a chaotic place and it is better to have means of protection. But it scares us that we need practice. And if we create a project, then it must be tested.
An asteroid that exploded over Siberia in 2013 injured 1,600 people. Didyma carries even more danger. The width extends to 160 m and upon impact will create an explosion with a force of 400 megatons. At the last meeting, scientists have proposed a more economical option. The miniature AIM satellite will be endowed with a smaller payload. Then the price will drop to 210 million euros. Of course, this will take 2-3 additional years, because it is important to equip it with measuring devices that determine the level of deviation.
Previously planned to carry out a test strike in 2022. And if you revise the new project, then we have time to develop it. Such operations have never been performed, and scientists can only speculate how an asteroid will behave. But we cannot do without practice, otherwise one day the scenario with dinosaurs may be repeated.
