Science Projects on Meteorites and Asteroids
Asteroids are leftover material from when our solar system was formed. Sometimes the orbit of the Earth or their trajectory through space brings them close enough to be caught in Earth's gravity. When they fall, they become meteorites. Most students are fascinated by astronomy, and meteorites are no exception. These visitors from outer space make for great science projects for students.
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Meteorite Strikes
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Discuss what happens when a meteorite enters the Earth's atmosphere. Consider how big a meteorite has to be to reach the surface of the Earth and how big a crater it will make. Talk about meteorite craters and why the surface of the Earth is not covered with craters like the Moon. Talk about known craters and meteorite strikes in recorded history.
Metorites and Dinosaurs
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One of the leading theories on the extinction of the dinosaurs is a meteorite strike 65 million years ago. Have students explain what evidence supports this theory. Talk about contradictory evidence and the other explanations that could fit the evidence.
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Finding Meteorites
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Have students discuss how meteorites are found. Discuss the best way of hunting them and the equipment meteorite hunters use. Have students talk about the types of areas where meteorites are normally found. Discuss the environmental factors that preserve meteorites or cause them to deteriorate. Talk about what meteorites look like and what factors caused their particular shapes.
Asteroids
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Have students explain what asteroids are made of and how they were formed. Talk about how many asteroids there are in the solar system and how they are distributed throughout the solar system. Discuss the dangers that asteroids pose to life on the Earth and what efforts are underway to minimize these threats.
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