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For 15 years, scientists have benefited from data gleaned by U.S. classified satellites of natural fireball events in Earth's atmosphere – but no longer.
A recent U.S. military policy decision now explicitly states that observations by hush-hush government spacecraft of incoming bolides and fireballs are classified secret and are not to be released, SPACE.com has learned.
Originally posted by CaptainCaveMan
They are not saying the asteroids are classified.
They are saying the satellites that detect them are.
Because they are not for that purpose.
...
Originally posted by TheStev
Actually, they're saying the information from the satellites is classified. And the whole point is why classify it now. I just don't buy the NK threat as a valid reason.
Originally posted by Kevin_X1
excuse me if i missed something but what does north korea have to do with stalites that are pointed away from the earth for observation of space and the stars?
Originally posted by Kevin_X1
excuse me if i missed something but what does north korea have to do with stalites that are pointed away from the earth for observation of space and the stars? I think you are trying to steer the discussion off topic, because the real issue is that proffessional scientists are no longer alowed to use those satalites for research. in other words, anything identified or otherwise coming from outer space is not classified. THIS is weird, and completely uncalled for
The satellites' main objectives include detecting nuclear bomb tests, and their characterizations of asteroids and lesser meteoroids as they crash through the atmosphere has been a byproduct data bonanza for scientists.
Most "shooting stars" are caused by natural space debris no larger than peas. But routinely, rocks as big as basketballs and even small cars crash into the atmosphere. Most vaporize or explode on the way in, but some reach the surface or explode above the surface. Understandably, scientists want to know about these events so they can better predict the risk here on Earth.
Originally posted by djvexd
reply to post by GriffinRD
Your first option is the most logical one as well as the most mundane. I would probably go with that one. However my CT side is screaming option 4. Space-based first strike anyone?
Scientists say not only will research into the threat from space be hampered, but public understanding of sometimes dramatic sky explosions will be diminished, perhaps leading to hype and fear of the unknown.