The Chinese mainland is gearing up to launch its first asteroid deflection test in 2025, marking a bold step into planetary defense. The mission, spearheaded by Wu Weiren—chief designer of the Lunar Exploration Program and director of the Deep Space Exploration Laboratory—will simulate a kinetic impact to nudge a small near-Earth asteroid off its path by 3 to 5 centimeters.
This experimental verification project draws inspiration from NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART). The target asteroid, located tens of millions of kilometers away, provides a real-world proving ground for technologies that could one day protect our planet from potential asteroid threats.
Building a comprehensive planetary defense system is a major priority. Plans include advancing detection and early warning networks, refining response strategies, and designing rescue protocols for post-impact scenarios. “Developing our own capabilities in detection, warning, response and rescue is key to safeguarding Earth,” Wu said in a recent interview with CGTN.
The concept was first revealed at the 2nd International Deep Space Exploration Conference (Tiandu Forum) in September 2024. This year’s forum brings together experts from international organizations and research institutions to discuss asteroid detection, defense and resource utilization—areas crucial to the future of deep space exploration.
Wu also stressed the importance of global cooperation. “Collaboration in monitoring near-Earth objects can amplify our shared capacity to predict and mitigate cosmic hazards,” he noted, inviting partners to join in strengthening a worldwide planetary shield.
With the 2025 test on the horizon, the Chinese mainland is ready to join the global effort in cosmic security, proving that defending Earth is a shared mission that transcends borders.
Reference(s):
China to kick off asteroid deflection project in 2025: expert
cgtn.com
