Asteroid hazard revised: Nature.com

In summary, scientists in Britain and Russia have calculated that large meteorites are more likely to break up in the atmosphere before hitting the Earth than previously thought. This raises the question of the effects of a potential magnetic pole reversal on humanity, including the potential for disruption to electronic devices and navigation systems. However, evidence suggests that animals and humans have adapted to past reversals and new methods of navigation have been developed.
  • #1
Ivan Seeking
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"Large meteorites are more likely to break up in the atmosphere before they hit the Earth than was previously thought, scientists in Britain and Russia have calculated."

http://www.nature.com/nsu/030714/030714-11.html
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
Great! Now we only need worry about the magnetic poles flipping!
 
  • #3
I thought the Magnetic poles where supposed to flip every couple of milleniums anyway? Does anybody know what actually happened last time the Poles switched?

Does this mean that Compasses will be backwards after that? If so just think of how much money a compass maker could get just by swapping it around.
 
  • #4
I was under the impression of having read something very recently in New Scientist, suggesting we're on a possible crux - the possibility of a reversal occurring over the next 1000 years. That's not a great span in terms of human history.
 
  • #5
What exactly would be the effects of a magnetic field reversal on humanity? I doubt that the effects would be clastrophobic because it has happened many times before; and mass extinctions don't seem to really have a link with magnetic field reversals. Of course, compasses will start to fail to work effectively, but we're finding better ways to find the direction of North; and the change is also gradual, so animals which rely on magnetism to navigate will have time to adapt..

How would the magnetosphere of the Earth change, for instance? Would we see the Auora Borealis at the Equator with a change, but not necessarily a reversal, in the magnetic fields? :P
 
  • #6
What would be the effect of a magnetic field reversal?

Lost your satellites, for starters.

A field reversal will have a major impact on those societies most dependent upon electronics.

At least, that's the impression I'm under.
 

1. What is the Asteroid Hazard Revised article on Nature.com about?

The Asteroid Hazard Revised article on Nature.com is about an update to the risk assessment of asteroid impact on Earth. It presents new data and calculations based on recent research and observations.

2. How does the revised asteroid hazard impact the Earth?

The revised asteroid hazard does not necessarily change the likelihood of an asteroid impact on Earth, but it does provide more accurate and up-to-date information on the potential impact and severity of such an event.

3. What new data and calculations were used in the revised asteroid hazard assessment?

The revised asteroid hazard assessment used new data from asteroid surveys and observations, as well as improved methods for calculating the probability and impact of an asteroid impact on Earth.

4. How does the revised asteroid hazard assessment affect current asteroid detection and mitigation efforts?

The revised asteroid hazard assessment provides more accurate and detailed information, which can help improve current asteroid detection and mitigation efforts. It also highlights the need for continued research and preparation for potential asteroid impacts.

5. What can individuals and governments do to prepare for a potential asteroid impact?

Individuals and governments can support ongoing efforts to detect and track near-Earth asteroids, as well as develop plans for potential mitigation strategies. It is also important to stay informed and prepared for emergency situations, as well as support scientific research on asteroid hazards.

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