China forms 'Planetary Defence Force' to combat rising threat of 'city killer' asteroid 2024 YR4

China Launches Recruitment for Planetary Defence Force Amid Rising Asteroid Threat. (Image: Canva)

As the likelihood of the 300-foot asteroid 2024 YR4 hitting Earth doubles, global efforts to counter the threat are intensifying. China is responding by setting up a "planetary defence force." The country's State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence (SASTIND) is already hiring for the role, anticipating potential asteroid impacts by 2032.

China's Plans for Planetary Defence
China has begun the hiring process for the planetary defence force. The nation seeks young graduates with expertise in astrophysics, space exploration, and aerospace technology. A job posting revealed that SASTIND aims to recruit 16 people, including three for the planetary defence force.

The positions require recent graduates with master's degrees or higher. Applicants must be under 35 and supportive of the Chinese Communist Party's leadership. The successful candidates will help monitor near-Earth asteroids and develop early warning systems.

China’s mission resembles NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (Dart), which impacted the asteroid Dimorphos in 2022. China’s mission, expected to launch around 2030, will closely observe asteroids and potentially alter their trajectories through kinetic impact.

Rising Risk of 2024 YR4
The asteroid 2024 YR4 has raised global concern. Although it remains unlikely to hit Earth, its chances of collision have increased from 1.3 to 2.2 per cent. The asteroid, measuring between 40 and 90 meters wide, could cause significant damage if it collides with Earth.

The United Nations’ Space Mission Planning Advisory Group, which includes China, is meeting to address the situation. Countries with active space programmes, including China, are discussing potential responses to this growing threat.