The possibilities of deflecting an asteroid from its collision course with the Earth by changing its velocity with an impact are considered. Using the asteroid Apophis as an example, the time dependence of the positions and sizes of the keyholes leading to collision is studied. It has been found that the possibility of deflecting this asteroid usually exists, and the impact can be accomplished in principle, given the capabilities of modern space technology. A change in the velocity should be performed before the encounter of 2029 in order to use the gravitational maneuver effect. The possible accuracy of determining Apophis’ orbit and the keyholes that lead to collision and are associated with the resonance returns are considered.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)338-346
Number of pages9
JournalSolar System Research
Volume52
Issue number4
Early online date17 Jul 2018
DOIs
StatePublished - 2018

    Research areas

  • asteroid, collision orbit, collision prevention

    Scopus subject areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space and Planetary Science

ID: 29154186