Small bodies of the Solar system-scientific challenges and practical aspects

The study of small bodies of the Solar system provides the key to understanding the processes of its formation and evolution. Basic science here is closely related to the applied aspects. First of all, this is true in relation to Near-Earth Objects (NEOs). The brief overview focuses on the discussion of such links. In particular, the following two topics connecting fundamental and practical issues are considered: origin, characteritics, and evolution of the NEO population $\leftrightarrow$ the problem of asteroid-comet hazard; meteoroids of both cometary and asteroid origin $\leftrightarrow$ safety of space activities in near-Earth space. The issues of coordination of research on small bodies topic both at the domestic and international levels are briefly discussed too. Special attention is paid to the prospects for coordinating research work on small bodies within the framework of the federal project ``Mlechny Put'' (Milky Way).