Meteorites, asteroids & comets

There are important differences between meteors, meteorites, asteroids and comets. Get to know them all with our expert views

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Meteorites are landing all over our planet - and, if you know what to look for, you could even make money out of space rocks. Rob Elliott explains how to become a meteorite hunter.

Is that space rock?

From pebbles on Brighton Beach to the granite of the Highlands - the UK is covered with rocks. How do you know if the stone in your hand has come from space? Check Rob's tips for recognising a meteorite.

Rites and wrongs

So, you've found a promising looking example - but is it really a rock from beyond this planet? A simple test can tell if what you've found is a meteorite - or a meteor-wrong.

Spotting asteroids

There are thousands of asteroids, some tiny, some large. How easy is finding asteroids in space?

What are they called?

Discover one way The Beatles really are out of this world - it's down to the rules for naming asteroids.

An image sent back from the EROS asteroid. Image: NASA

Which one is that?

With so many objects hurtling about, how do we know which is which? The system isn't foolproof, but at least there are agreements on asteroid registering and tracking.

Computer-generated image of an asteroid hitting earth from 'Space' TV series

Threat or blessing?

If an asteroid heads our way, should we take evasive action - or grab our mining equipment? Do we avoid or exploit?

Was it a meteorite?

The Great Biritsh Meteorite Hunt saw thousands of you out seeking for space rocks. Dr Matt Genge reports on how you got on in was it a meteorite?

Just another rock?

So, you think you've found a meteorite? Congratulations! But are you sure that's what it is? Some everyday rocks can look quite similar. Our guide can help you decide: Is it a meteorite?

Have you heard, it's in the stars...

Are we doomed to be crushed to death in a collision with a rock from the skies? Is there an asteroid heading for impact - planet earth?

Ice in the skies

You might not get as close to a comet as Deep Impact, but you can still get to know these snowballs in space.

Closer to comets

They're very distinct from asteroids and meteorites. Discover more about comets - the what, where and why.

The basics

They're snowballs haring through space - catch the basics about these objects with our essential comets.

What's the impact on you?

Will the scientific insights given by smashing a spaceship into a comet be worth the costs? Is the chosen day a little too symbolic? We want to hear your views - science or stunt?