Asteroids circling the sun alongside Venus could pose a significant threat to Earth if left unchecked, according to new research. The giant space rocks, known as co-orbital asteroids, are at least 460 feet wide and capable of causing catastrophic damage if they were to strike our planet.
Researchers led by Valerio Carruba discovered at least 20 asteroids around Venus, which are believed to have originated from debris in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. The fact that these asteroids are obscured from our view makes them difficult to detect, and it’s possible that there are many more yet to be discovered.
While the risk of a collision is low, astronomers warn that the unstable orbits of these asteroids could change over time, potentially diverting them on a path toward Earth in the coming millennia. To mitigate this risk, researchers recommend using new observational tools like the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and dedicated missions to hunt for Venusian asteroids.
NASA and other space agencies are already preparing for potential planetary defense efforts, including a mission to study and deflect near-Earth asteroids. While the threat from these asteroids is currently low, it’s essential to remain vigilant and continue monitoring their orbits to ensure the safety of our planet.
In 2022, NASA successfully demonstrated its ability to nudge an incoming asteroid out of harm’s way using a spacecraft collision technique called Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART). Similar efforts are underway to develop an asteroid-hunting telescope that can discover near-Earth objects capable of causing significant damage.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/06/06/venus-asteroid-threat-earth/84045738007