Placing the Near-Earth Object Impact Probability in Context

Abstract

Near-Earth objects (NEOs) have the potential to cause extensive damage and loss of life on Earth. Advancements in NEO discovery, trajectory prediction, and deflection technology indicate that an impact could be prevented, with sufficient warning time. We derive an impact frequency of NEOs 140m and larger, using the NEOMOD2 NEO population model and JPL Horizons. We then place that frequency in context with other preventable causes of death; allowing for comparison between a planet-wide event and individual events that cause fatalities such as car crashes and carbon monoxide poisoning. We find that the chance of a $>140$ m asteroid hitting the Earth is more likely than the chance of an individual being struck by lightning.

Published in The Planetary Science Journal. 11 pages, 2 tables, 1 figure. UPDATE: Addition of lecture-ready slide formatted versions of Figure 1 created by graphic designer James Round (https://www.jamesrounddesign.com/). Access paper via "source" to download image files

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