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Near Earth Object impact simulation tool for supporting the NEO mitigation decision making process

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 August 2006

Nick J. Bailey ,
Graham G. Swinerd ,
Andrew D. Morley  and
Hugh G. Lewis
Nick J. Bailey
Affiliation:
Department Aerospace Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
Graham G. Swinerd
Affiliation:
Department Aerospace Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
Andrew D. Morley
Affiliation:
Department Aerospace Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
Hugh G. Lewis
Affiliation:
Department Aerospace Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Abstract

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This paper describes the development of a computer simulation tool, NEOSim, capable of modelling small NEO impacts and their effect on the global population. The development of the tool draws upon existing models for the atmospheric passage and impact processes. Simulation of the land and ocean impact effects, combined with a population density model, leads to casualty estimation at both a regional and global level. Casualty predictions are based upon the intensity of each impact effect on the local population density, with consideration given to the population inside or outside local infrastructure. Two case studies are presented. The first evaluates the potential threat to the UK, and highlights coastal locations as being at greatest risk. Locations around Cornwall demonstrate an increase in casualties above the local average. The second case study concerns the potential impact of asteroid (99942) Apophis in 2036. Propagation of the possible orbits along the line of variance leads to an extensive path of risk on the Earth. Deflection of the asteroid, by a variety of means, will move the projected impact site along this path. Results generated by NEOSim for the path indicate that South American countries such as Colombia and Venezuela are at a greatest risk with estimated casualty figures in excess of 10 million. Applications of this software to the NEO threat are discussed, along with the next stage of NEO impact simulation development.

Keywords

Impact risk
Type
Contributed Papers
Information
Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union , Volume 2 , Symposium S236: Near Earth Objects, our Celestial Neighbors: Opportunity and Risk , August 2006 , pp. 477 - 486
Copyright
Copyright © International Astronomical Union 2007

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