Scientists are making significant strides in identifying near-Earth objects (NEOs) thanks to advancements in technology. A new algorithm, called Tracklet-less Heliocentric Orbit Recovery (THOR), has revealed a treasure trove of asteroids that were previously hidden in plain sight.
By analyzing
vast archives of astronomical data, THOR sifted through historical observations to pinpoint a staggering 27,500 asteroids. This number surpasses the total discovered by traditional telescopic methods in the past year.
Among these newfound space rocks are roughly 100 that venture within Earth’s orbital path, raising concerns about potential future impacts. The majority originate from the asteroid belt located between Mars and Jupiter.
This discovery represents a turning point in astronomical research, according to Ed Lu, executive director of the Asteroid Institute. He emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive solar system map for both scientific advancement and planetary defense efforts.
“A well-mapped solar system is crucial for astronomers to gain deeper insights, not just for scientific purposes but also for protecting our planet,” Lu said.
The sheer volume of data presented a challenge. The National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab) archives contain a staggering 412,000 images, encompassing a mind-boggling 1.7 billion points of light.
Fortunately, THOR, in collaboration with Google Cloud, was able to analyze this massive dataset within a mere five weeks. The algorithm successfully identified previously overlooked asteroids, highlighting its potential for future space exploration.
“The work of the Asteroid Institute is vital,” said THOR co-creator Mario Jurić, a senior data science fellow with the UW eScience Institute. “Current telescopic methods and techniques are nearing their discovery limits, and advancements like THOR are crucial for us to stay ahead.”
While none of the newly discovered asteroids pose an immediate threat of collision, THOR’s development signifies a significant leap forward in our ability to detect potentially hazardous objects lurking in the cosmos. This newfound knowledge will prove invaluable in safeguarding our planet from future cosmic threats.