21 Mar 2011
From meteor showers to giant asteroid impacts, the Earth is constantly bombarded by debris from space. A brand-new exhibition now open at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich takes a look at these fiery visitors and their impact on our planet, which can cause death and destruction; laying waste to vast areas and even triggering mass extinctions of plants and animals. It also explores the vital clues that asteroids and meteorites provide about the violent formation of the Solar System. Plus there's the chance to see and touch real space rocks in the Royal Observatory's astronomy galleries.
The Impact exhibition uses spectacular images, film and interactive exhibits to explore how asteroids and comets have shaped our solar system, and what we can learn from them. Running alongside will be a programme of talks, planetarium shows and family activities, running until the end of August.
Exhibition dates: 12 March-29 August 2011
Venue: Astronomy Centre, Exhibition Space, Royal Observatory
Admission: FREE
Opening hours: 10.00-17.00 daily (last admission 30 mins before closing)