What is our best option if a large asteroid was detected and it was headed directly towards Earth?
A) Blow it up in space before it enters our atmosphere
B) Divert it so that it doesn't collide with Earth
C) Allow our atmosphere to vaporize it
D) Send the space shuttle up to tow it out into space
E) Evacuate areas that would be impacted

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Diverting the asteroid so that it doesn't collide with Earth is the best option because it minimizes the risk of impact and damage. Blowing it up in space could result in multiple smaller impacts instead of a single large one, and any fragments would still pose a threat. Allowing our atmosphere to vaporize it is not practical, as the asteroid could still cause damage and the resulting atmospheric disturbances could have adverse effects. Sending the space shuttle up to tow it out into space is not a feasible option due to the size and mass of an asteroid. Evacuating areas that would be impacted may not be effective in avoiding all damage and casualties.

What Is Our Best Option If a Large Asteroid Was