Speaker
Description
Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) represent a potential hazard to Earth, and effective planetary defense strategies are crucial for mitigating these risks. The Klet Observatory in the Czech Republic plays a pivotal role in both the research and public outreach related to NEOs. Since its establishment as an astrometric NEO follow-up station in 1992, and more recently with the deployment of the 1.06-m KLENOT Telescope in 2002, Klet has contributed significantly to international NEO research. In 2014, the Observatory became a partner in the European Space Agency's (ESA) Space Situational Awareness (SSA) programme, further enhancing its contributions to planetary defense efforts.
In addition to its scientific research, Klet Observatory has prioritised public education on NEOs and planetary defense. The outreach initiatives began with public lectures and have expanded to include a diverse array of communication channels. These efforts include specialised websites, open houses, social media engagement, educational multimedia presentations for schools, workshops for teachers, and geocaching events. The Observatory has also took part in TEDx talks, outdoor exhibitions, and activities for youth, with the goal of raising awareness about asteroid hazards and planetary defense strategies.
In the future, Klet plans to incorporate cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education to enhance public engagement. These initiatives are inspired by the concept of "Science & Art," aiming to make the complex field of planetary defense both accessible and appealing to the public.
Through over thirty years of experience, Klet Observatory has gained valuable insights into effective public outreach. The education of a broad audience—ranging from the general public and students to journalists and policymakers—on the risks posed by NEOs and the strategies for planetary defense has proven to be a crucial task for scientific institutions and researchers.
As a new feature of Klet NEO a Planetary defense we realised an excercise for public. This paper presents the results of a public exercise conducted during a hypothetical impact scenario involving the near-Earth asteroid 2025 KLET. The exercise aimed to engage participants in decision-making related to planetary defense, presenting a variety of defense options, including nuclear interventions, and exploring the role of evacuation strategies. The exercise’s primary goal was to enhance public understanding of NEO risks and promote awareness of potential defense strategies. The scenario was designed to engage both the general public and higher education students, encouraging critical evaluation of defense measures and their implications.
The design and methodology of the exercise, including the selection of defense options, criteria for public decision-making, and structure of the simulation, are discussed. Ultimately, Klet's mission also extends to inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers, fostering a global, inclusive approach to scientific discovery, and emphasising the importance of international collaboration in addressing planetary defense challenges.