The genius plan to destroy the next doomsday meteor

Researchers have discovered a new method to deflect asteroids away from Earth. Instead of shattering them into smaller pieces, which could still cause damage, they suggest a lighter impact from the side to nudge the asteroid off its course. This approach leaves the asteroid intact and reduces the risk of fragments hitting Earth.

How does the new approach to asteroid deflection differ from the previous methods?

What was the method used by researchers to test their theories on asteroid deflection?