International Asteroid Day - 30th June

🌍 International Asteroid Day: Why June 30 Matters

International Asteroid Day is a global event observed annually on June 30 to spread awareness about asteroids, their role in the solar system, and the potential risks they pose to Earth. This day commemorates the Tunguska event of 1908—a powerful explosion caused by a celestial object that flattened over 2,000 square kilometers of forest in Siberia.

The day was initiated by prominent scientists and space advocates including Stephen Hawking and Rusty Schweickart, with support from astronomers and educators around the world. The United Nations officially recognized Asteroid Day in 2016 to promote planetary defense education and asteroid research.

Across the globe, Asteroid Day is marked by live events, science talks, virtual conferences, school activities, and broadcasts from major space agencies like NASA and ESA. These initiatives aim to help people understand how we detect near-Earth objects (NEOs) and what strategies we can use to protect Earth from future impacts.

Interestingly, asteroids aren’t only seen as threats—they are also viewed as potential resources. Some space rocks contain water and rare metals that could one day be mined for use in space missions or technological development, making them valuable for future space exploration.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Asteroid Day

 

    ❓ What is International Asteroid Day and why is it observed?  

 

    It is a global awareness campaign celebrated on June 30 to educate people about asteroids and their potential risks. The date marks the 1908 Tunguska impact.  

 

    ❓ Who started International Asteroid Day?  

 

    It was co-founded by Stephen Hawking, astronaut Rusty Schweickart, and others. The UN recognized it officially in 2016 to raise space hazard awareness.  

 

    ❓ What activities happen on International Asteroid Day?  

 

    Events include science talks, classroom sessions, space agency livestreams, and observatory tours to promote asteroid knowledge and preparedness.  

 

    ❓ How do asteroids pose a threat to Earth?  

 

    Some near-Earth asteroids (NEOs) have orbits that come close to Earth. Though large impacts are rare, even small ones can cause local damage.  

 

    ❓ Can asteroids be useful to humans?  

 

    Yes! Asteroids may be mined for water and valuable metals in the future, helping support space missions and providing rare resources for Earth.