3 ms·
You're assuming the kinetic weapon originates on Earth, which doesn't apply when talking about a weapon wielded by a space colony against Earth. Instead, you sh
by wtallis 6y ago
You're assuming the kinetic weapon originates on Earth, which doesn't apply when talking about a weapon wielded by a space colony against Earth. Instead, you should be calculating how much rock or metal a Falcon Heavy could lift off the surface of the Moon and set onto an Earth-intercepting trajectory, then subtract the kinetic energy that will be lost during reentry (hence the suggestion to use tungsten).
- vl 6y agoNo, I used this estimate as simple way to calculate TNT equivalent. Of course energy of collision is proportional to delta-v. In solar system it’s tricky (or rather very energy-demanding) to achieve delta-v with Earth exceeding 30km/s. Which would require truly massive projectile to compare in energy with nuke.