Introduction:

It’s well known that the reign of the dinosaurs came to an end when a giant asteroid smashed into Earth 66 million years ago. However, a new study suggests that this huge asteroid wasn’t alone. Scientists from Heriot Watt University have discovered evidence that a second devastating space rock smashed into Earth in the same year, and it’s a game-changer.

The Discovery:

The team of researchers, led by Dr. Uisdean Nicholson, made the discovery while studying seismic reflection data of the Atlantic Ocean’s seabed. The data revealed a depression measuring almost five miles (9km) deep, which the team suspected could be an asteroid impact crater. Further investigation using high-resolution, 3D seismic images confirmed their suspicions.

Size and Impact:

Initially, the researchers suggested that the asteroid would have been around 400 meters wide. However, the new images confirm that it was even bigger than this – measuring between 450-500m wide. The team believes that it came from about 20-40 degrees to the northeast and hit Earth at about 20 km per second (72,000 km/h).

Timeline of Events:

Based on the data, the scientists have created a timeline of what they think happened – from the initial collision to an 800-meter-plus high tsunami that would have traveled across the Atlantic ocean. The impact was associated with large landslides, earthquake shaking, and liquefaction of sediments below the seabed.

Conclusion:

While it’s been 116 years since an asteroid like this has been seen, it likely won’t be long before another huge space rock strikes our planet. According to NASA, asteroid Bennu has a one in 2,700 chance of smashing into Earth on September 24, 2182. The discovery of the Nadir Crater serves as a reminder of the potential dangers that lurk in space and the importance of continued research and monitoring.