Still, this begs the question, “How many times can we dodge the bullet?”
There are dozens of objects which are in close proximity to Earth at any time. Last year, the objects 2002 XV90 and 2002 MN were found. They were number two and three in the list of close approaches by celestial objects. The closest approach, since scientists have been keeping track, occurred in 1994, when 1994 XM1 came within 112,000 km.
The Earth has been struck in the past. In 1908, a large object impacted the Tunguska River in Siberia in 1908, devastating a huge area of land. Other such impacts have occurred throughout history, including the “big one.” A large comet or asteroid collided with the Earth 65 million years ago thus eliminating about 75% of the Earth's life forms including the large reptiles (dinosaurs).
Are we overdue for such an impact? What plans are in place should such a large object be discovered? I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to trust my future to the whims of galactic fate. I agree with the letter writers mentioned above. It’s time for a concentrated effort to protect our world.
Other Great Resources from About Astronomy and Space
- Telescope Basics
- Moon Basic Information
- Free Printable Space Posters
- Space Shuttle Resources
- Moon Phase Calendar Through 2025