MadSci Network: Astronomy |
D. M. Barringer, who investigated the meteor crater in Arizona, did research on this subject. He fired bullets from a rifle into various materials at various angles and found that the shape of the crater was almost always circular. What did vary was the way the material from the crater flew out. The way that ejecta fans out from the crater reveals the angle that the meteor impacted the surface. You can check out this web site that has pictures of the asteroid Eros. As you look at the craters, you will notice that with few exceptions, they are circular. NEAR Image of the Day The next web site shows a map of the moon. Again, examine the shape of the craters. Also look at the ejecta fans and see if you can determine the direction the meteors came from. Moon Map Now experiment for yourself. The next web site gives the directions for making your own craters. You can try several different angles and see for yourself, what happens. Remember that the impacts must be high energy. These experiments will make a mess so get permission and help from an adult. Make a Crater Good luck and be careful.
Try the links in the MadSci Library for more information on Astronomy.