我们为什么要去撞击小行星

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses China's plans for asteroid exploration, defense, and resource utilization, emphasizing the importance of building a comprehensive asteroid defense system and the potential economic value of asteroid resources [3][10]. Group 1: Asteroid Characteristics and Threats - Asteroids are remnants from the solar system's formation, categorized into various types, including near-Earth asteroids, which pose significant threats to Earth [4][6]. - Historical asteroid impacts have caused massive destruction, including the extinction of dinosaurs and recent events causing injuries and property damage [6][7]. Group 2: Current Research and Exploration Efforts - Various countries have undertaken missions to explore and study asteroids, with notable examples including Japan's Hayabusa missions and China's Chang'e program [5]. - The U.S. and European Space Agency have successfully tested asteroid deflection techniques, demonstrating the feasibility of kinetic impactor technology [5]. Group 3: China's Strategic Plans - China is developing a near-Earth asteroid detection and defense system, focusing on monitoring, on-orbit disposal, and response strategies [8]. - A demonstration mission is planned for around 2027 to test kinetic impact techniques on a target asteroid, aiming to change its orbit and gather critical data [9]. Group 4: Economic Potential of Asteroids - Asteroids contain valuable resources, including metals and water, which could support future space economies [10][11]. - Estimates suggest that over 700 of the 1,000 well-studied asteroids have individual values exceeding $100 trillion, with the total resource development value in the asteroid belt projected to exceed $70 trillion over the next 30 years [11].