ISRO Chief S. Somanath has emphasized the real possibility of an asteroid hitting Earth, highlighting the need for preparedness. Apophis, a massive asteroid, is expected to pass by Earth in 2029 and 2039. Somanath noted that events like the Shoemaker-Levy collision with Jupiter could lead to extinction if they occurred on Earth.
He stressed the importance of taking such threats seriously despite the rarity within our lifetimes. Historically, asteroid impacts, especially those 10 km or larger, have been extinction-level events. Somanath advocated for the development of technology to detect and deflect approaching asteroids. This includes improving prediction capabilities, enhancing observation, and collaborating globally to create effective response protocols.
Somanath emphasized that when a real threat emerges, humanity must unite to tackle it. As a leading space nation, India has a responsibility to contribute to global efforts in developing the necessary technical and programming capabilities.
Anil Kumar, Associate Director at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC), confirmed that experiments are ongoing to assess our readiness to defend against potential asteroid impacts within a year.
