How cost-effective are efforts to detect near-Earth-Objects?

Abstract

The work discusses the cost-effectiveness of efforts to detect near-Earth objects, specifically asteroids and comets. It evaluates past NEO detection efforts, estimates their cost-effectiveness under different impact assumptions, and considers future detection possibilities. The study calculates the probabilities, expected damages, and chances of averting impacts to determine the cost-effectiveness of NEO detection programs. It also explores extending detection efforts to comets and the potential challenges and cost-effectiveness associated with such extensions. Overall, the work provides insights into the effectiveness and potential future directions of NEO detection initiatives. – AI-generated abstract.