Scientists Model Nuclear Blast to Deflect Asteroids

Researchers test how nuclear detonations could potentially break apart large asteroids threatening Earth.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Nuclear

Isometric editorial illustration showing a jagged geometric asteroid fragmenting in deep space, representing planetary defense research. — Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory are modeling how nuclear radiation could effectively fragment large asteroids to ensure global planetary defense. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you support the use of nuclear weapons to prevent asteroid impacts on Earth?

Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have developed 3D simulations to assess how nuclear explosions might deflect or destroy hazardous asteroids. The models explore using X-ray radiation to fragment objects that exceed the capabilities of conventional spacecraft impactors.

Why it matters

Conventional kinetic impact methods may be insufficient for giant asteroids or those detected with short lead times. These simulations offer a potential high-force alternative for global planetary defense efforts in extreme emergency scenarios.

Researchers utilized the Spheral code to conduct 3D simulations following over 1,500 one-dimensional calculations performed with the Ares model. The findings show 97 percent of the asteroid mass accelerated beyond the object's gravity after detonation.

The players

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

This is a federal research facility that specializes in science and technology solutions for national security challenges.

NASA

This is the United States government agency responsible for the nation's civilian space program and aeronautics research.

The details

The process uses X-ray radiation from a nuclear blast to cause rapid evaporation and fragmentation of the celestial body. By modeling a 160-meter diameter asteroid, the team determined that such force could effectively disrupt the monolithic structure of the object.

In 2022, NASA successfully tested a kinetic impactor on the asteroid Dimorphos.
The findings regarding the nuclear simulation were published on October 20, 2026.

The Big Picture

This study updates the mathematical framework for asteroid mitigation strategies currently overseen by NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office. It extends the reach of planetary defense research by providing high-force alternatives to the kinetic impact techniques previously tested.

While these simulations are theoretical, the calculations provide international defense organizations with the mathematical data needed for future emergency planning. This research helps prioritize how global space agencies might respond if a large object poses a collision risk to Earth.

The takeaway

These simulations demonstrate that high-energy nuclear solutions provide a viable secondary defense option for planetary protection. Researchers recommend using these models as a foundation for developing contingency plans against large-scale asteroid impacts.