Catastrophic consequences predicted for asteroid Bennu's collision with Earth

An unprecedented computer simulation conducted at Pusan National University (South Korea) reveals the consequences of a potential collision between asteroid Bennu and our planet. The event, with a probability estimated at 0.04%, could occur in September 2182.

Asteroid Bennu, reaching 500 meters in diameter, although smaller than its ancient counterpart that wiped out the dinosaurs, is capable of causing large-scale changes on Earth. According to calculations by the Aleph supercomputer, the collision could result in the release of 100 to 400 million tons of dust into the atmosphere.

Researchers Lan Dai and Axel Timmerman identified dramatic consequences of such an event:

- Global temperature decrease by 4°C

- 15% reduction in precipitation

- 32% decrease in ozone concentration

According to scientists, the sharp cooling would create critical conditions for the plant world, reducing photosynthesis in terrestrial and marine ecosystems by 20-30%.

However, the study revealed an unexpected positive aspect: while land plants would recover slowly, algae would not only quickly return to normal but exceed current growth rates.