Scientists use explosive X-rays to test viability of nuking incoming asteroids

Sandia National Labs used their 'Z machine' to simulate nuclear blasts on asteroid materials, providing insights into asteroid deflection methods.

: Scientists at Sandia National Labs are using the 'Z machine' to simulate the effects of nuclear blasts on asteroids. By creating super-heated plasma and X-rays, they analyzed the impact on silica samples. The findings offer insights into deflecting asteroids with nukes. More detailed simulations are needed for varied asteroid compositions.

Scientists at Sandia National Labs have explored the viability of using nuclear blasts to deflect incoming asteroids. They leveraged their 'Z machine,' the world's most powerful pulsed power device, to generate super-heated plasma that emits powerful X-ray radiation bursts similar to those from a nuclear explosion in space. These X-rays were used to bombard miniature asteroid samples made of silica, simulating deflection scenarios.

In the experiment, silica samples suspended in a target chamber were bombarded with X-rays, causing immediate vaporization and movement that mimicked weightless conditions. The data collected allowed researchers to model how actual asteroids might react to nuclear blasts. However, the researchers acknowledged that most asteroids are more complex than silica and are often composed of mineral mixes and debris clusters.

The experiments conducted with the 'Z machine' offer a controlled and systematic way to test asteroid deflection concepts without expensive space missions. However, more research is needed to account for the varied compositions of real asteroids. Additionally, the potential risks of breaking an asteroid into smaller chunks that could still impact Earth must be considered.

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