TOH edition: Sunday, 13 September 2026 · Science & Technology
A Laser Bounced Off a Passing Asteroid Gives Us Unprecedented Precision to Defend the Planet
Reported by Phys.org
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Japan's Hayabusa2 spacecraft has completed the first-ever laser-ranging measurement of an asteroid, bouncing light off space rock Torifune with sub-meter navigational accuracy. The milestone proves space agencies can pinpoint the trajectory of fast-moving near-Earth objects across vast interplanetary distances. That level of precision equips scientists with the vital capability needed to track threatening space rocks and safeguard the Earth.
Tracking a distant asteroid with sub-meter laser accuracy marks a vital leap toward building a reliable planetary defense system that can protect humanity from cosmic hazards.
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