Throughout Earth’s violent history, impacts from comets and asteroids have mercilessly shaped its surface. The ancient barrage continues today, from harmless meteors (those brilliant streaks in the night sky) to mountain-sized boulders wandering perilously close to our home planet. Terrifying and majestic, these invaders from space are capable of utter destruction, yet they have delivered life-giving water and most of the organic materials necessary for life. Life on Earth owes its very existence to these denizens of the solar system, yet it could all be wiped out in an instant.

This ceaseless Firefall is our only tangible connection to the universe beyond and is an ever-present reminder of our own humble beginnings in the hostile environment of space. Join us on Friday, September 12, for the amazing planetarium show Firefall in Room 108 of the Nielsen Physics Building.

Doors open at 7:45 p.m. and the screening runs from 8 until 9 p.m. The show is free and open to all, though viewers under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Seating is limited, so reserve your tickets now!