The history of asteroids is not merely about wandering rocks in space; it is the story of how these celestial bodies have shaped Earth's geology, climate, and even the course of life itself. This comprehensive work explores the origins of the solar system, the destructive power of past impacts, and the ongoing scientific efforts to detect and prevent future threats. Readers are taken on a journey from the cataclysmic events that caused mass extinctions and left behind colossal craters, to the cutting-edge technologies now used to track Near-Earth Objects. Along the way, it examines the role of artificial intelligence in asteroid detection, the ethical dilemmas of asteroid mining, and the importance of international cooperation in planetary defense. Blending scientific depth with cultural and historical perspectives, the book also highlights how asteroids have inspired mythology, literature, and modern cinema. It is both an informative resource and a thought-provoking reflection on humanity's place in the cosmos, offering insights into the risks we face and the innovations that may safeguard our future.
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