NASA experts and scientists from the European Space University say that on October 19 "the end of the world" may happen on Mars. The reason for the threat is a comet approaching the planet.
The celestial body called C/2013 A1 (Siding Spring) with the diameter of 50 km, will pass near Mars at the very short distance. Astronomers believe that the planet and comet are unlikely to encounter, but some believe it can happen.
The celestial body and Red planet are approaching each other at the very high speed – 56 km/s. Moreover, the comet is heading straight to Mars.
NASA scientists are excited because of the devices that are currently working on the orbit of Red Planet. Terrestrial devices may be damaged due to the rocks and dust from the comet. That is why the trajectory of some probes has been changed.
The researchers note that the most critical moment for the devices will come in 90 seconds after the comet passes. At this time, they will be located behind the planet and will not be able to note the approximation. However, the devices that are currently working on the Martian surface – the Opportunity and Curiosity Mars rovers will be able to record the comet.
At the same time, scientists report that if the comet encounters Mars, it will lead to a blast. As a result, there will be ejected the energy of 20 billion megatons of TNT. It will destroy everything on the planet. In other words, the local "end of the world" will happen.
