NASA's DART Mission Unveils New Insights into Asteroid Deflection

Studies reveal the age, composition, and potential vulnerabilities of the Didymos-Dimorphos asteroid system.

DART successfully altered Dimorphos' orbit, confirming asteroid deflection is feasible.
Didymos' surface is around 12.5 million years old, while Dimorphos is much younger.
Dimorphos is composed of loosely held boulders, indicating it formed from Didymos' debris.
Thermal fatigue and eclipses affect the structural integrity of asteroid boulders.
ESA's upcoming Hera mission will provide further data on the DART impact and asteroid properties.