Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors

When one science fiction author called the asteroids "ten thousand fleas on the dead dog of night," he was only reflecting the disregard astronomers once had for these mysterious objects-most of which were considered little more than nuisances. Today, astronomers have a whole new respect for asteroids, comets, and meteors. The collision of an asteroid with Earth may have spelled the end of the dinosaurs-and a future collision may end life as we know it on our planet. Likewise, the icy mounds called comets are not just rare, graceful apparitions in the night sky, they are among the most interesting objects in the solar system, perhaps holding clues to the origin of the solar system itself. This book explores these little-known but fascinating denizens of outer space. Title page......Page 3 Copyright info......Page 4 Contents......Page 5 Building A Solar System......Page 7 Miniature Worlds......Page 11 The Asteroid Belt......Page 18 Exploring Asteroids......Page 26 Discovering Comets......Page 37 Tracking Meteors......Page 58 Glossary......Page 75 For More Information......Page 77 Index......Page 79 About the Author......Page 82 During the formation of the solar system, not all of the materials in the vast could of dust and gas were used. What happened to the remaining ice, metal, and rock? It formed what became known as asteroids, comets, and meteors. Take a look at the significance of these objects and the possible impact they have on humankind. Chronicles The Formation Of The Solar System, Particularly How Asteroids, Comets, And Meteors Were Formed, And Relates How Astronomers Learn About The Existence And Characteristics Of These Bodies.