Scientific investigations of asteroids provide foundational knowledge for the building and evolution of planetary systems, including the delivery to Earth of water and the chemistry for life. In this talk we will trace the path of science advancement in our study of asteroids, focusing on the population of near-Earth objects, and their samples delivered through meteorites and through direct return by the Hayabusa and OSIRIS-REx spacecraft. Beyond science, we can apply this knowledge for the benefit of humanity in understanding the hazards (and future potential) of asteroids in near-Earth space. In particular, we will focus on the once-per-thousand year knowledge opportunity for the science of planetary defence presented by the April 2029 close flyby of the asteroid Apophis and the ESA RAMSES mission.
Monica Lazzarin
