On the importance of studying asteroids: A comprehensive review

Abstract

This comprehensive study delves into the significance of asteroid research and proposes a systematic classification consisting of seven distinct categories. Initially, a concise definition is presented to differentiate between asteroids, meteorites, and comets, accompanied by a brief exploration of their unique characteristics. Recognizing the valuable scientific insights that these celestial bodies hold, the reasons for studying asteroids are categorized as follows: 1) Life's origin, 2) The Moon's origin, 3) The origin of water on Earth, 4) Vast reservoirs of valuable resources, 5) Colonization, 6) Threats, and 7) Advancing our understanding of physics. This paper meticulously reviews these seven reasons and subsequently delves into the achievements of past missions to low-gravity bodies, including Pioneer 10, Galileo, Clementine, NEAR Shoemaker, Deep Space 1, Cassini–Huygens, Stardust, Hayabusa, New Horizons, Rosetta, Dawn, Change 2, Hayabusa2, Lucy, Dart, and OSIRIS-REx. Additionally, future missions are introduced, while the challenges associated with flybys, mining operations, and asteroid landings are thoroughly examined.