The Don Quixote mission: A fantasy that never materialized

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Two decades ago, the European Space Agency (ESA) had a bold plan to protect Earth from a possible asteroid impact. The project, known as the Don Quixote mission, consisted of the launch of two space probes, the Sancho probe and the Hidalgo probe, with the aim of studying and destroying an asteroid in case of threat. The Sancho probe, equipped with high-precision instruments such as a LiDAR, an altimeter and an orbital camera, would be launched first to orbit the asteroid and collect detailed data on its composition and characteristics. Once this information was obtained, it would be sent to the Hidalgo probe, which would impact the asteroid at a dizzying speed of , kilometers per hour. Contrary to what some might think, this mission was not carried out because a dangerous asteroid was discovered approaching Earth. In reality, the Don Quixote project was just a concept, an ambitious idea that never came to fruition. ESA never gave clear explanations as to why they abandoned the project, but it is speculated that the technical complexity and high cost involved were the main obstacles.

Although it did not take place, the Don Quixote mission shows us ESA's determination to protect our planet from the dangers of space. Its innovative and brave approach, inspired by the novel Don Quixote, reminds us that space explorat Palestinian Territories Email List ion is not only about discovering new horizons, but also about safeguarding life on Earth. As we advance space exploration, new approaches and more viable technologies may emerge to meet the asteroid challenge. However, the Don Quixote mission will remain a reminder of our desire to protect and better understand the vast universe around us. Although this fantasy did not come true, it leaves a mark of inspiration in the search for the safety of our planetary home. Frequent questions: . What was the main objective of the Don Quixote mission? The main objective of the Don Quixote mission was to study and, in case of threat, destroy an asteroid to protect the Earth. . What were the space probes involved in the Don Quixote mission? The space probes involved in the Don Quixote mission were the Sancho probe and the Hidalgo probe.



What instruments did the Sancho probe have? The Sancho probe was equipped with high-precision instruments such as a LiDAR, an altimeter and an orbital camera. . What was the action plan for the Don Quixote mission? The plan of action for the Don Quixote mission was for the Sancho probe to orbit the asteroid to collect detailed data, and then the Hidalgo probe would impact the asteroid at high speed. . Why was the Don Quixote mission not carried out? The Don Quixote project was abandoned and never carried out. Although no clear explanations were given, it is speculated that technical complexity and high cost were the main obstacles. Key terms: – European Space Agency (ESA): Organization in charge of space activities of European countries. – Don Quixote Mission: ESA project that consisted of launching space probes to study and destroy asteroids in case of threat. – Asteroid: Rocky body that orbits the Sun, generally in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.