NASA and other agencies simulated an asteroid impact scenario, revealing that current technology cannot prevent an asteroid from hitting Earth if detected too late. Experts suggest a minimum of five to ten years is needed to study and mitigate such threats. Legislation requires NASA to track 90% of large Near Earth objects by 2021, but only 40% have been tracked. Potential mitigation strategies include using explosives, lasers, or spacecraft to alter an asteroid's path, all requiring years to implement.

What was the main conclusion of the NASA-led simulation regarding asteroid impact prevention?

• Current spacecraft can easily prevent asteroid impacts.

• No spacecraft can currently prevent an asteroid impact if detected late.

• Asteroids are not a threat to Earth.

• Asteroids can be stopped with minimal preparation.

According to experts, how many years are needed to effectively study and mitigate an asteroid threat?

• 1 to 2 years

• 5 to 10 years

• 3 to 4 years

• 11 to 15 years

What percentage of Near Earth objects had NASA tracked by 2021?

• 40%

• 50%

• 90%

• 75%

Which of the following is NOT a proposed method to mitigate an asteroid threat?

• Using explosives to break it into smaller pieces

• Using lasers to vaporize it

• Sending a spacecraft to change its trajectory

• Building a large wall in space

What is the legislative goal set for NASA regarding Near Earth objects?

• To find 100% of all asteroids

• To track 90% of Near Earth objects 140 meters or larger

• To build a spacecraft capable of destroying asteroids

• To eliminate all asteroid threats by 2021