US scientists plan to deploy space laser array to intercept invasive asteroids

DE-STAR system operation principle diagram.

A group of researchers from Caltech and the University of California, Santa Barbara, has proposed an innovative solution to protect Earth from potential asteroid threats. Their concept, called DE-STAR, is not just about destruction—it also aims to analyze asteroid composition and support deep-space exploration by providing energy.

On February 15, a small asteroid passed close to Earth, just hours after heavy rainstorms hit parts of Siberia. This event, combined with a meteorite shower in Russia, highlighted the growing concern over space debris and the need for proactive defense systems. Coincidentally, on February 14, scientists from UC Santa Barbara and Caltech announced their new plan: using solar energy to build a massive laser array capable of tracking and neutralizing dangerous asteroids.

Philip Rubin, a physics professor at UC Santa Barbara, emphasized the importance of taking early action. “We must think logically and rationally about the challenges we face,” he said. “It’s better to act in advance rather than wait until it's too late. We can make a real difference, and we should start now—starting small and without needing huge resources.”

The team refers to their project as DE-STAR, short for "Directed Energy System for Targeting Asteroids and Reaching Deep Space." The idea is to use solar power to create a large laser phased array that can lock onto and vaporize incoming asteroids.

Gary Hughes, a researcher at Caltech, noted that while all the necessary components are available, scaling them up to the desired size remains a challenge. “The technology is there—we just need to build it bigger,” he said. “Starting small is possible, and we can begin now.”

According to the team's vision, DE-STAR could range from a desktop-sized device to a massive structure spanning 10 kilometers in diameter. For instance, DE-STAR2, which would be about the size of the International Space Station, could deflect smaller asteroids. Meanwhile, a larger version like DE-STAR4 could emit enough energy daily to melt a 500-meter-wide asteroid within a year.

Beyond asteroid defense, the system could also help in exploring space. It could analyze asteroid materials to identify valuable minerals and even serve as a power source for interstellar travel, eliminating the need to carry heavy fuel supplies.

The research team is currently preparing a detailed proposal for peer review, aiming to bring this groundbreaking concept closer to reality. With continued development, DE-STAR could become a vital tool in safeguarding our planet and expanding humanity’s reach into the cosmos.

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