Double Asteroid Redirection Test to Target Non-Threatening Dimorphos

NASA has begun its first test of anti-asteroid defensive measures, with an launch of the DART, or Double Asteroid Redirection Test. Designed to prevent the worst from coming to pass from extraplanetary bodies colliding with Earth, the system launched on November 24 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Space Launch Complex 4 East at California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base. 

As a part of NASA’s future planetary defense strategy, the DART will impact a known, non-threatening asteroid to test its response. If successful, the asteroid’s motion will move in a measurable way as seen from earth, proving the concept sound before further investment. Proving functional deflection as a result of an intentional, automated collision will provide important information should Earth ever face a possible impact hazard. 

DART will be accompanied by a LICIACube CubeSat riding along from the Italian Space Agency to deploy 10 days prior to impact for assessment and recording of the collision and subsequent ejection of rock. After 4 years, the European Space Agency’s Hera project will pass by to provide detailed surveys of both asteroids, with particular focus around the impact site’s remains along with a precise determination of the target’s size and remaining mass.

The planned impact should occur on September 26, 2022 on one of 2 binary asteroids, Dimorphos. In synchronous binary movement with its larger partner Didymous, the asteroid measures about 560 feet in diameter. The rocky satellite will provide the first result of human intervention in space, substantially changing its form, path, and orbit, if successful. 

“DART is turning science fiction into science fact and is a testament to NASA’s proactivity and innovation for the benefit of all,” said NASA head Bill Nelson. “In addition to all the ways NASA studies our universe and our home planet, we’re also working to protect that home, and this test will help prove out one viable way to protect our planet from a hazardous asteroid should one ever be discovered that is headed toward Earth.”

FMI: www.nasa.gov