ASP Online Seminars: Comets and asteroids: from contributing to the destruction of life on Earth?

Tuesday 27 May 2025, 13:00 → 14:30 UTC

Abstract:

Comets and asteroids have played a dual role in Earth’s history, both as potential harbingers of life and agents of destruction. This talk explores how these small celestial bodies have shaped the evolution of life on our planet. We will examine their contributions to early Earth, delivering water and organic molecules essential for life’s emergence. At the same time, we will discuss their catastrophic impacts, from mass extinctions, such as the asteroid that ended the reign of the dinosaurs, to potential future threats posed by Near-Earth Objects (NEOs). By understanding the science behind these bodies, their past influence, and modern efforts in planetary defense, we can appreciate their profound role in shaping Earth’s biological and geological history.

 

Bio of the speaker:

Dr. Youssef Moulane is a Research Scientist in astronomy and astrophysics at University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P). He previously worked as a Postdoc at Auburn University in the United States. His research focuses on the study of the physical and chemical properties of small bodies of the solar system, including comets and asteroids. He holds a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Space Science from Cadi Ayyad University in Morocco and the University of Liège in Belgium in 2021. He has previously worked as a visiting researcher at the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Chile between 2019-2021. In addition to his academic work, he is also interested in outreach and educational activities in the field of astronomy for the public and general audience.

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Moulane-ASP-Seminar.pdf

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