Hidden Asteroids Near Venus Pose Potential Threat to Earth

Newly Discovered Space Rocks Could Become Unpredictable ‘City-Killers’

Scientists have identified a population of asteroids sharing Venus’s orbit, some with unstable trajectories that could, over millennia, pose a collision risk to Earth. The discovery raises concerns about previously unknown impact hazards.

Asteroid Swarms and Orbital Dynamics

Researchers are focusing on asteroids that become temporarily trapped in Venus’s orbit, known as quasi-satellites. These space rocks don’t orbit Venus directly but follow a complex path that keeps them in the vicinity for extended periods. Michael Busch, a planetary scientist involved in the research, notes that these asteroids are difficult to detect due to their orbital characteristics.

🚨 Earth in danger? Giant ‘city-killer’ asteroids hiding near Venus could strike without warning; scientists warn https://t.co/q9q9q9q9q9

“These asteroids are essentially invisible to current detection methods because of their orbital configuration.”

—Dr. Paul Chodas, Manager of the Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS)

According to NASA, as of February 2024, there are over 31,000 known near-Earth asteroids, but this number represents only a fraction of the total population. (NASA CNEOS)

The ‘Invisible Threat’ and Long-Term Risks

The concern isn’t an immediate impact, but the potential for gravitational interactions over vast timescales. Venus’s gravity can nudge these asteroids onto Earth-crossing orbits. While the probability of a collision in the near future is low, the potential consequences are significant. Qicheng Zhang, a researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles, emphasizes the need for improved monitoring.

Simulations conducted by the Sustainability Times suggest that a large asteroid originating from this region could annihilate entire regions if it were to impact Earth. The simulations highlight the importance of understanding the long-term orbital evolution of these objects.

Future Monitoring and Mitigation

Detecting these asteroids requires advanced telescopes and sophisticated tracking algorithms. Current surveys primarily focus on asteroids closer to Earth. Expanding these efforts to include a more comprehensive search around Venus is crucial for assessing and mitigating the potential threat. Further research is planned to refine orbital models and improve impact predictions.