NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope launches from Kennedy Space Center in August to study dark energy and dark matter. However, it also plays a role in planetary defense by detecting asteroids. Equipped with a 300-megapixel infrared camera, Roman's wide field of view can spot asteroids up to 60 feet long, similar to the Chelyabinsk asteroid that struck Russia in 2013. Its ability to survey a large area quickly complements other telescopes like JWST and the upcoming NEO Surveyor. In September, researchers will present how Roman can track asteroid trajectories, aiding in impact predictions. While not its primary mission, Roman's infrared vision helps assess asteroid composition and size, crucial for deflection strategies. Collaborations ensure that potential threats are identified and monitored, enhancing Earth's protection against cosmic impacts.

Roman's software currently discards streaks caused by cosmic rays or glitches, but astronomers propose repurposing this data to identify asteroids. By working with telescopes like JWST and the Vera Rubin Observatory, Roman can rapidly narrow asteroid orbits, even for objects like 2024 YR4, which briefly ranked as the most dangerous asteroid ever discovered. Its infrared capabilities allow size and composition estimates, informing deflection or vaporization plans.

NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office emphasizes detecting 460-foot asteroids, with 25,000 estimated near-Earth orbits. While Roman isn't the primary asteroid-hunting tool, its vast field of view accelerates follow-up observations, ensuring timely assessments of potential threats. Ground-based telescopes and the 2027 NEO Surveyor will complement Roman's efforts, creating a robust defense network.