The Secure World Foundation is calling for the establishment of a worldwide asteroid warning system. The system would inform policymakers and the general public when an asteroid is found to be on a collision course with Earth. It would also, however, educate everyone about the scientific and economic value of asteroids.
So far this year, astronomers have documented several close calls-- asteroids barely missing Earth-- and we can only assume there have always been a large number of near misses. We are simply watching now. The evidence is clear Earth has been struck many times before, and it obviously will happen again unless we develop a capability to detect and deflect dangerous rocks. Establishing a system that issues warnings and educates the public is a step towards that capability.
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