NEOs such as comets, asteroids, and meteors are objects that have been nudged by the gravitational attraction of nearby planets into orbits that allow them to enter the Earth's neighborhood. Asteroids typically reside in a "belt" between Mars and Jupiter. Meteors, on the other hand, are usually much smaller, typically pebble-sized or smaller, and are usually made of debris left by comets.  Every once in an eon, though, an asteroid or big meteor comes along that could wipe out a city or a million dinosaurs :)  Walt Pickut will talk about the different types of NEOs, where they come from, how they've impacted the Earth, and possible future dangers.
 
This presentation will be live at Martz-Kohl Observatory and available online via Zoom on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at 7:30 pm. You are encouraged to come to the observatory to meet Tom and Walt and join in Q&As after the talk. Tours will follow. Dress appropriately for the weather as if you were outside. If the weather permits, there will be public viewing opportunities. More info: https://martzobservatory.org
 
The Martz-Kohl Observatory, located at 176 Robbin Hill Rd, Frewsburg, NY, is operated by the Marshal Martz Memorial Astronomical Association, Inc. a non-profit organization devoted to the amateur astronomer. The emphasis of the association is observational astronomy, well-rooted in education outreach and enjoyment of the starry skies.