Asteroids have been colliding with Earth for billions of years, and these impacts have played a significant role in shaping the planetβs surface. One of the most famous asteroid impacts is the one that contributed to the extinction of the dinosaurs around 66 million years ago. This impact created the Chicxulub crater in Mexico and triggered dramatic climate changes that wiped out much of life on Earth.
Today, astronomers track near-Earth asteroids to assess the potential threat they may pose. While the risk of a major impact is low, understanding the behavior and trajectory of asteroids is crucial for future planetary defense efforts.