Orbiting our Sun are large numbers of objects that range in size from dust particles to planets. Somewhere in the middle of this size spectrum are asteroids and comets.
Over the last 30 years, we’ve increased our knowledge of how the Earth and such objects cross each other’s orbit – and how often these events result in an impact.
John Field, Programme Officer at Carter Observatory, will discuss the actual risk of this hazard. He’ll also look at some benefits that asteroids and comets bring. For example, the discovery of rare minerals in some asteroids may lead to an asteroid mining boom.
So come to Te Papa and hear the thrilling and chilling news about Near Earth Objects!