Earth Shattering Impacts

A planetary geologist discusses the effects of asteroid impacts and why gas giants have rings while rocky planets don't. The speaker shares their journey from being a fascinated child in Argentina to working at the European Space Agency. The role of impact processes in the formation of the planet and the solar system is explored, including the hypothesis of a large space rock causing a mass extinction event. An enthusiastic encounter with a young boy passionate about science is highlighted. A research expedition uncovers evidence of the mass extinction and discovers a new species. The European Space Agency's activities in planetary exploration and upcoming Mars missions are discussed.