World Asteroid Day, observed every June 30th, is a global initiative designed to raise awareness about asteroids and the risks they present. This day aims to educate the public about space science, the threat of asteroid collisions, and the importance of continuous space monitoring. The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized World Asteroid Day in 2016. The date was selected to commemorate the 1908 Tunguska event in Russia, where a major asteroid exploded, causing widespread destruction. The day was initiated by Dr. Brian May, film director Gregg Richter, and numerous astronauts and researchers. The primary objective of World Asteroid Day is to inform people about the scientific and astronomical significance of asteroids and to emphasize the importance of identifying and monitoring celestial bodies (NEOs) that come near Earth. It also highlights the planetary protection missions conducted by space agencies like NASA and ESA. Scientifically, the study of asteroids offers insights into the early solar system, as they contain ancient elements. Furthermore, the timely identification of potentially dangerous asteroids can prevent collisions, thereby protecting Earth. Various space agencies, educational institutions, and science centers around the world organize online seminars, lectures, and workshops on this day. Experts discuss missions such as NASA’s DART and ESA’s Hera, which focus on asteroid deflection strategies. World Asteroid Day 2025 serves as a critical reminder of Earth’s vulnerability to space-based hazards and the necessity of ongoing scientific efforts, observations, and global collaboration to keep our planet secure.
