The near-Earth object impact hazard: space mission priorities for risk assessment and reduction

Abstract

In July 2002 the general studies programme of the European Space Agency (ESA) provided funding for preliminary studies of six space missions that could make significant contributions to our knowledge of near-Earth objects. Following the completion and presentation of these studies, the ESA Near-Earth Object Mission Advisory Panel (NEOMAP) was established in January 2004. NEOMAP was charged with the task of advising ESA on the most effective options for ESA participation in a space mission to contribute to our understanding of the physical nature of near-Earth asteroids and the terrestrial impact hazard. This paper summarizes the final recommendations of the panel. The text is from the Executive Summary of the original NEOMAP Report to ESA. The complete report can be downloaded from: http://www.esa.int/gsp/NEO/other.htm