Space / Astronomy: What's Hot Now: Near Earth Objects

Space / Astronomy: What's Hot Now These articles that had the largest increase in popularity over the last week // via fulltextrssfeed.com

Near Earth Objects Nov 11th 2011, 10:20 A recent article on BBC.com says that a small meteoroid (approximately 16 feet wide) flew past the Earth recently. It was the fourth closest pass by an object since we have been monitoring near Earth objects. The article continues by saying the object was too small to cause any actual damage and praising the astronomers who had detected it… 21 hours after its closest approach. Personally, I would be happier if space debris that comes close to Earth were discovered before they posed a threat. Also, according to the BBC, “Half of the top 10 approaches to the Earth by space rocks have been detected in the past two years.” What about the other half? Plus, that is just the top 10. How many of the other approaches were spotted? Half? Would you be satisfied with a bullet-proof vest if it only stopped half the bullets shot at you? I am not condemning the people who are working so hard to discover these Near Earth Objects (NEOs). I know they truly do a remarkable job, and the BBS was right to commend Arianna Glearson and Tom Gehrels, who spotted 2003 SW130, observing with the Spacewatch 1.8-metre telescope in Arizona. The fact that they were able to spot such a small object is amazing. However, considering the possible results if Earth were to be struck by a large object, we really need to work harder to find them. Earlier this year, a group of Americans got together to send a request to Congress. These concerned citizens are “convinced that the time has come for our nation to address comprehensively the impact threat from asteroids and comets." This letter goes on to say, "A growing body of scientific evidence shows that some of these celestial bodies, also known as Near Earth Objects (NEOs), pose a potentially devastating threat of collision with Earth, capable of causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The largest such impacts can not only threaten the survival of our nation, but even that of civilization itself." More on Near Earth Objects Danger 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

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