[RightWhale]

There is some thought of beginning to study what to do. Something ought to be done besides making neat lists of space objects that might wipe out earth. Leave compiling neat list to the Euros, they seem to enjoy that. Let NASA take action, it's the American way.

[John H K]

For some reason people like to make fun of asteroid defense, though.

Mainly because it's never happened in recorded human history. But human history is pretty damn short.

Even the most fanatical small-government proponent would have to concede that one valid function of government is to do what it can to prevent civilization from ending.

There's a tiny chance of that but it's so bad it's worth devoting some money to.

[cogitator]

Related editorial (with the same article, which obviously got me thinking along the same lines as you):

Now is the time for "Spaceguard"

[RightWhale]

What asteroids can do to ruin your day, another thread.