Content area
Abstract
The possibility of using nuclear explosions to prevent dangerous space objects, specifically, the asteroid Apophis, from colliding with our planet is evaluated. Two variants are considered: delivery of an impulse capable of deflecting the trajectory to a safe distance from Earth or fragmentation by means of a powerful explosion into fragments small enough not to cause a catastrophe during an encounter with Earth. The dynamics of the destruction of the asteroid is examined. The fragment size distribution after a nuclear explosion with a definite energy release is presented. It is concluded that to prevent a dangerous collision between our planet and the asteroid Apophis the nuclear explosions must be applied well ahead of time.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]