In an unprecedented move, China has initiated recruitment for a “planetary defense force” in response to growing concerns over the potential threat of an asteroid hitting Earth in 2032. This bold initiative, announced by the State Administration of Science, Technology, and Industry for National Defence (SASTIND), comes amid increasing global focus on the 2024 YR4 asteroid, which has seen its probability of colliding with Earth rise from 1.3% to 2.2% in recent assessments.

The job advertisements, posted on WeChat this week, seek recent graduates with expertise in aerospace engineering, asteroid detection, and international cooperation. The recruitment drive includes 16 vacancies, three of which are for the new planetary defense force. Applicants must be under 35 years old, hold advanced degrees in fields like astrophysics or aerospace science, and support China’s political ideology under the leadership of Xi Jinping.

This initiative has sparked significant online discussions, particularly among young people in China, where unemployment rates hit record highs in 2023. While some expressed excitement at the idea of “saving the world,” others pointed out the immense pressure and potential irony in failing to stop an asteroid.

The recruitment highlights China's growing aerospace ambitions and its commitment to strengthening global space collaboration. As the asteroid threat continues to evolve, China’s efforts signal a major step in preparing for a future where planetary defense might become an international priority.