Identifying, Understanding and Coping with Outer Space Debris – by Charlie Eder:  .

Our solar system is filled with rocky, icy, and man-made debris. Vanderbilt Museum Astronomy Educator, Charlie Eder, will discuss: missions that have explored these space rocks, how to distinguish comets, asteroids, and meteoroids from each other, how to identify meteorites, and what causes meteor showers. Then, we'll look at the destructive potential this debris has, and possible solutions proposed by various space agencies to protect us. While close encounters with asteroids can be life threatening, man-made space junk poses a risk to our way of life and the future of space exploration". 

Charlie Eder received his Master's in Physics with a concentration in Astronomy from Stony Brook University in 2021. He is currently the Astronomy Outreach Coordinator for the Vanderbilt Museum, bringing astronomy programs to libraries, nature centers, assisted living communities, and underprivileged schools.