(Impact Studies) 1st ed. 2022 Edition
by Josep M. Trigo-Rodríguez (Author)
This book describes the complexity of impact hazards associated
with asteroids and comets. The challenge in this regard lies in the
heterogeneous nature of these bodies that endanger our planet, which is
why we are conducting new experiments to better understand their unique
physicochemical properties. Several generations of astronomers have
tracked and mapped the orbits of asteroids and comets over the past few
centuries, and telescopic surveys have only begun to discover “new”
interstellar objects. In addition, cutting-edge software allow our
computers to combine the orbits of these elusive bodies to study how
they evolve over time and seek to match asteroid complexes as fragments
of asteroidal and cometary disruptions.
Impact hazards represent
one of the greatest threats to the survival of human beings in the
medium term. Geological studies show that the stratigraphic record holds
clear geological evidence of these rare but transcendental encounters
in the history of life on our planet. The study and quantification of
past catastrophes can give us clues to face future challenges in the
form of potential impacts.
Further, it would be illogical to
assume that Earth’s interaction with space is limited to major impacts.
Every night, Earth is struck by millions of particles, and dozens of
meteor showers occur around the globe every year. The study of lake and
ocean sediments reveals the magnitude of the continuous contribution of
interplanetary matter reaching Earth: roughly 100,000 tons per year.
Accordingly,
the goal of this book is to underscore the need for society-wide
awareness of the dangers associated with asteroid and comet impacts, on
the basis of scientific evidence and with no intention of sparking
alarmism. After all, we ourselves may only be the fruit of an
opportunity given to mammals sixty-five million years ago to evolve
after the conflagration that would be the downfall of the dinosaurs. If
we have learned to read Earth’s geological history, we should consider
ourselves a very fortunate species, and its teachings should equip us to
face this problem.
The also book emphasizes the role of space
missions to gain insights on these bodies, particularly describing the
relevance of the DART (NASA) and Hera (ESA) missions to deflect and
study Dimorphos, respectively, the small satellite of the Didymos binary
asteroid.
