Slow Burn Decoder Ring: A Feel-Good Story About the End of the World
Nov 10, 2024
Dr. Robin George Andrews, a science writer and author of 'How to Kill an Asteroid,' dives into the fascinating aspects of planetary defense. He recounts the Chelyabinsk incident and the misconceptions about asteroid threats, particularly 'city killers.' Andrews shares insights into NASA's pioneering DART mission aimed at redirecting asteroids, revealing innovative strategies such as collision and unconventional tactics. The discussion emphasizes humanity's capability to tackle existential threats and transform anxiety into proactive engagement for a safer future.
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Chelyabinsk Meteor
- A small asteroid exploded over Chelyabinsk, Russia, in 2013, injuring over a thousand people.
- The explosion was equivalent to a non-radioactive nuclear weapon, highlighting the destructive potential of even small asteroids.
City-Killer Asteroids
- City-killer asteroids, the size of football stadiums, are common and could cause unprecedented disasters.
- If one hit a populated area, it could kill hundreds of thousands to tens of millions, essentially obliterating the city.
What are Asteroids?
- Asteroids are leftover debris from the solar system's formation, mainly residing between Mars and Jupiter.
- The first asteroid was discovered relatively recently, in 1801, due to their small size and erratic movement.