According to a report from Phys.org, researchers are investigating diffractive solar sails as a potential defense against asteroid impacts. Unlike conventional reflective sails, diffractive sails would use the subtle pressure of sunlight in a different way, potentially allowing a spacecraft to intercept and redirect a threatening asteroid at speeds up to 100 km/s.
The report notes that while no known asteroid is currently on a collision course, thousands are discovered each year, and the possibility of one eventually threatening Earth cannot be ruled out. The concept is still in early development, but it represents a possible tool for planetary defense.
Because this is the only source provided, there are no conflicting accounts to compare. The idea remains theoretical, but it highlights the growing interest in proactive measures against potential asteroid impacts.