Meteorites?!

Yes! Meteorites and falling space debris! We got through (I’d really like to say survived, but very tragically not all of us did) the earthquake, hurricane and floods. Now NASA has informed us that a huge defunct “giant” satellite, a 6 ½ ton climate probe, will plummet to Earth on Friday, September 23rd, or Saturday, September 24th. I know what you’re thinking, “When will this end?” It won’t – stay prepared!

NASA predicts up to 26 pieces from UARS will survive re-entry with the largest being about 350 pounds when it hits the ground. Most are expected to disintegrate upon entering the Earth’s atmosphere, so hopefully only small pieces will reach us and our property. Having said this, when was the last time a hot marble hit you that fell from the top of a building? Ouch. If it doesn’t break apart there is a fall-out effect from meteors which includes a crater, massive debris flying into the air, fire to the surrounding trees, brush, houses, etc., and an earthquake-like movement. Run!

So, keep an eye on the sky Friday and Saturday, because you don’t want to be near if/when it hits. NASA predicts your chances of getting hit as 1 in 3,200.  If you think that sounds like pretty good odds then consider this – there are 311 million people in the United States.  That mean possibly 9,743 people will get hit. (Thanks, NASA.)  You should be able to see the debris coming and there should be plenty of time to get out of the way – by plenty I mean SECONDS. Just step aside quickly! If you’re swimming in the water and see a piece hit away from you – get out of the water, and fast. You should only have to wait about ten minutes to make sure it’s safe to go back in (we want to see how the fish, sharks, waves, sand, etc. react). If you’re driving, and your car gets hit, don’t wait – get out of the car. If you’re at home – get out of the house. (And then check to make sure your home insurance is up to date and you have comprehensive insurance on your car!)

If you see a piece – KEEP LOOKING FOR THE REST OF THE FALLING SATELLITE, and stay out of the way.

Be safe, ask for help if you need it, and remember I love you and I’m here for you! Ken and I aren’t cancelling our dinner and dancing plans for Friday night, but we’ll be very careful (he’s SO wonderful)!

For more information about this happening go to http://www.space.com/13028-falling-nasa-satellite-largest-30-years.html  or check out this video: