China planning mission to strike asteroid, alter its orbit: Report

China is advancing an ambitious planetary defense mission aimed at testing the capability to alter the orbit of a near-Earth asteroid by deliberately colliding a spacecraft with it. The mission, announced by Wu Weiren, chief designer of China’s lunar exploration program, involves launching two spacecraft: an observer to survey and collect detailed data on the asteroid, and an impactor to strike it at high velocity. The expected orbital deflection is modest—about 1.2 to 2 inches—but would demonstrate the feasibility of asteroid redirection. If launched within 2025, China would become the second country after the US to achieve such a milestone in planetary defense. The mission is part of China’s broader vision to establish a comprehensive planetary defense system incorporating early warning, in-orbit response, and preparedness for asteroid threats. Kinetic impact is central to this strategy, supported by other technologies to enhance effectiveness. Wu also expressed openness to international cooperation and data sharing to build a global asteroid defense network. This effort follows growing