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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.
43:36
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Quick takeaways
- The Chelyabinsk asteroid event exemplified the unforeseen dangers small asteroids present, underscoring the need for increased monitoring and awareness.
- NASA's successful DART mission demonstrated humanity's potential to proactively defend against asteroid threats, bolstering hope for future planetary safety strategies.
Deep dives
The Chelyabinsk Asteroid Event
On February 15, 2013, the Russian city of Chelyabinsk experienced a significant asteroid event when a small asteroid, about 60 feet long, entered the Earth's atmosphere and exploded with immense force. This explosion resulted in widespread panic and damage, with more than a thousand people injured and buildings affected up to 30 miles away. The incident, previously thought to be a nuclear attack or alien invasion, highlighted the fact that even small asteroids can cause substantial destruction upon impact. This event served as a wake-up call, illustrating that there are numerous small asteroids in space that can pose a threat to Earth, even if they are not detected in advance due to their size.
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