Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

New Tech Enhances Nighttime Detection of Asteroids

7/28/2025

35 6

Summary

Story summary

John Sandusky from Sandia National Laboratory has unveiled an innovative approach to detecting near-Earth asteroids at night using heliostats. This cost-effective method leverages existing technology to track asteroids' speeds against the backdrop of stars, enhancing planetary defense by enabling earlier threat identification and reducing potential damage.

1 of 1

Story summary

John Sandusky from Sandia National Laboratory has unveiled an innovative approach to detecting near-Earth asteroids at night using heliostats. This cost-effective method leverages existing technology to track asteroids' speeds against the backdrop of stars, enhancing planetary defense by enabling earlier threat identification and reducing potential damage.