The Asteroids We Should Watch Out For

Large asteroids and meteors, such as the Chicxulub Impactor, may change the scope of the planet. But which asteroids should we be looking out for?

By Sara Novak
Jun 2, 2023 3:00 PM
Planet Earth and big asteroid in the space.
(Credit:buradaki/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

We know that asteroids can do a lot of damage. One barreled into the Yucatan Peninsula 66 million years ago and caused the demise of 70 percent of all life on Earth, including the dinosaurs. Within moments the six-mile-wide chunk of rock, known as the Chicxulub impactor, caused tsunamis so large that the Great Plains were overwhelmed with water. 

Giant shock waves reverberated across the planet, clouding the sky with volcanic eruptions and shaking the ground with endless earthquakes. What's worse, no one saw this mega-disaster coming, which leaves us to wonder: could it happen again? What's out there, and do we know if it's headed our way?


Read MoreGiant Ripples Under Louisiana Are Evidence of the Dinosaur-Killing Asteroid Impact

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2023 Kalmbach Media Co.