When Worlds Collide

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/7/b/a/600_363278842.jpeg

Planet Earth is constantly being struck by interplanetary debris: fine dust, rocks, boulders (big enough to outshine the Sun when they die), asteroids, comets, and even small stray planets. Some of these events offer glorious night-time views, others can cause planetary annihilation. Please join Dr. Zahnle as he explores the glories and the threats … when worlds collide.

Wonderfest and the Mt. Tamalpais Astronomy Program present Planetologist Kevin Zahnle from the NASA-Ames Research Center for a talk on Earth’s status as a “rock star” for powerful impacts from space. After Dr. Zahnle’s presentation, the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers (SFAA) will provide big telescopes for wonderful close-up views of the heavens.

WHAT: “When Worlds Collide,” a lecture followed by star gazing
WHO: Dr. Kevin Zahnle, planetologist, NASA-Ames Research Center, and Paul Salazar, the Urban Astronomer < http://urbanastronomer.blogspot.com >
WHEN: Saturday, May 31, 2014; 8:30 PM
WHERE: Cushing Memorial Amphitheater (http://www.friendsofmttam.org/astronomy/directions-and-contact-information.html), Mt. Tamalpais State Park, 801 Panoramic Hwy., Mill Valley, CA
HOW: Presented in collaboration with the Mt. Tam Astronomy Program, SFAA, Friends of Mt. Tam, and California State Parks. Call 415-455-5370 if the weather looks dodgy. Bring warm clothes (in case), a flashlight, a seat cushion, and a heavenly amount of curiosity.
ADMISSION: FREE. Please Register at: http://wonderfest.org/when-worlds-collide/