Asteroid: Doomsday or Payday?

Gr 9 Up—Asteroids: Our biggest threat, or a great opportunity? This NOVA investigation concisely covers the issues scientists face with the many asteroids in space and their potential danger to Earth. It begins with an explanation of how an asteroid could account for the extinction of dinosaurs, and leads to a discussion of a recent asteroid strike in Siberia (and some of the reasons it was not earlier detected). This video covers the importance of tracking asteroids (to avoid a collision with Earth), ways to destroy them, and a look into the future of mining asteroids for resources and, perhaps most importantly, water for fuel. Different experts discuss these topics, along with outstanding simulations. The progression through the subjects is well designed and flows seamlessly. An excellent introduction to or supplemental material for a space unit.—Stephanie Farnlacher, Trace Crossings School, Hoover, AL