Asteroids, comets, and space debris are serious threats from space that may one day threaten millions of people. What happens when such cosmic missiles crash into Earth? Is it possible to protect ourselves from such an impact?
At a Mexican test site, scientists are investigating the danger posed by asteroids. Models of the Australian city of Sydney are being used to simulate the damage such a projectile could cause once it hits the Earth's surface. The test results are even causing the crew to shudder.
Researchers are therefore feverishly searching for a solution to avert such a threat to humanity. However, they must consider the nature of different asteroids. Therefore, no one-size-fits-all solution is possible. To understand how asteroids can be stopped, they must first understand how these projectiles are constructed.
However, the danger from space is even more acute. Unlike comets, asteroids are harmless. With such a projectile, no one can predict its final trajectory, as they can change direction unexpectedly. Comets are made of ice, among other materials. So, heat is the optimal solution. But can they really be stopped with giant lasers?
In this episode of the series "Death from Space," renowned astronomer Phil Plait investigates the threat posed by asteroid and comet impacts. Through vivid experiments and interviews with experts in the field, viewers are given a clear understanding of a real threat from space.
