Chinese scientists unveil blueprint for asteroid defense and resource utilization, call for int'l collaboration

Core Viewpoint - Chinese scientists have unveiled a comprehensive plan for a near-Earth asteroid defense system, emphasizing the need for global collaboration to ensure planetary safety [1][3][12]. Asteroid Defense Program - The strategic concept for asteroid defense development was presented under the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) framework [3]. - The plan includes monitoring and early warning, in-orbit handling, and systematic response, aiming to establish a comprehensive detection and defense system for near-Earth asteroids [4]. - Historical asteroid impacts, such as the one that led to the extinction of dinosaurs, highlight the potential hazards posed by near-Earth asteroids [5][6]. International Cooperation - The International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) and the Space Mission Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG) were established in 2014 to enhance global asteroid defense efforts, with China actively participating [10]. - Global scientists praised China's asteroid defense plan, noting its relevance and timeliness [11]. - China aims to share observation data and research findings with international partners through the IAWN platform, promoting collaborative monitoring and data sharing [12][20]. Resource for Humanity - China emphasizes that space resource exploration and utilization should benefit all humanity, proposing joint efforts to develop the deep space economy [16]. - The deep space economy includes sectors such as resource utilization, energy, and transportation, with near-Earth asteroids identified as rich in valuable resources [17][19]. - Other countries, including the United States and Japan, have enacted legislation to support the development of space resources, indicating a growing global interest in this area [18].