Asteroids are ancient space rocks left over from the formation of the Solar System. They are thought to have brought complex molecules, and possibly early life, to Earth billions of years ago.

As inhabitants of our planet, we must learn how to keep ourselves and Earth safe from any future impacts that might pose a threat.

Planetary defence is an essential element of ESA’s Space Safety programme. ESA conducts regular observation campaigns to search the sky for potentially hazardous asteroids. If detected, their orbits are calculated and predicted and, if necessary, impact warnings are issued

ESA is also working on mitigation measures – including space missions. 

Learn more about Planetary Defence at ESA.