Scientists have discovered that nuclear explosions can help protect Earth from asteroid impacts – not by destroying the asteroids – but by using X-rays to push them out of the way. A new Sandia National Laboratories study suggests that detonating a nuclear device near an asteroid could generate X-rays strong enough to vaporize some of its surface, creating a force that could deflect its course.

Examination of asteroid deflection with X-rays

The concept was tested using Sandia’s Z Machine, the most powerful X-ray source on Earth. By generating a flash of X-rays similar to that of a nuclear explosion, the researchers were able to simulate the conditions an asteroid would experience. The experiment successfully demonstrated how these intense X-rays can vaporize the surface material from the asteroid, pushing it in a new direction.

Simulation of asteroid deflection in the laboratory

For their experiments, the researchers used targets made of quartz and silicon, materials commonly found in asteroids. They suspended the targets in a vacuum and exposed them to powerful X-rays, which generated a vapor cloud that caused the targets to accelerate. This simulated the effect of an X-rayed asteroid in space. Targets reached speeds of around 155 mph, showing that the concept was viable in real-world conditions.

A potential tool for planetary defense

Scaling these results to a larger scenario, a nuclear explosion a mile above a 2.5-mile-wide asteroid could generate enough force to prevent it from hitting Earth. This strategy could be particularly useful for deterring giant asteroids that pose a global threat, such as the one responsible for the extinction of the dinosaurs. Understanding how different asteroid materials react to X-rays is crucial for future missions to prevent catastrophic impacts on Earth.

In conclusion, this innovative approach offers a promising new method for planetary defense, with nuclear X-rays potentially protecting our planet from cosmic threats.