JOURNAL ARTICLE

"We don't want to keep an asteroid secret, because then no one ever trusts you".

  • Published In: New Scientist, 2025, v. 268, n. 3569. P. 38 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Wilkins, Alex 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the Torino scale, a system created by astronomer Richard Binzel to assess the risk of asteroid impacts on Earth. The scale rates asteroids from 0 to 10 based on their potential threat level, with recent attention drawn to asteroid 2024 YR4, which briefly reached level 3 before its risk diminished. Binzel emphasizes that while the discovery rate of near-Earth objects is expected to increase with new telescopes, the likelihood of a significant impact remains low, and advancements in tracking technology enhance our ability to monitor these threats. He also highlights the importance of public communication regarding asteroid risks and the moral responsibility of scientists to ensure that potential threats are identified and addressed. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:New Scientist. 2025/11, Vol. 268, Issue 3569, p38
  • Document Type:Interview
  • Subject Area:Biography
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0262-4079
  • DOI:10.1016/s0262-4079(25)01871-8
  • Accession Number:189245962
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