Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Near-Earth objects (NEOs) have the potential to cause extensive damage and loss of life on Earth. Advancements in NEO discovery, trajectory prediction, and deflection technology indicate that an impact could be prevented, with sufficient warning time. We derive an impact frequency of NEOs 140 m and larger, using the NEOMOD2 NEO population model and JPL Horizons. We then place that frequency in context with other preventable causes of death, allowing for comparison between a planet-wide event and individual events that cause fatalities such as car crashes and carbon monoxide poisoning. We find that the chance of a >140 m asteroid hitting the Earth is more likely than the chance of an individual being struck by lightning.
Source: The Planetary Science Journal
DOI: 10.3847/psj/adf0e3
Authors: C. R. Nugent, K. P. Andersen, James M. Bauer, C. T. Jensen, L. K. Kristiansen, C. P. Hansen, M. M. Nielsen, C. F. Vestergård
Language: English
Topic: Astro and Planetary Science
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,800
Funder: Aalborg Universitet
OpenAlex ID: W4413190094