Asteroid Launcher – A Simulation of Celestial Impacts
Asteroid Launcher is a free interactive simulation developed by Neal Agarwal that allows users to visualize the aftermath of an asteroid impact. Using an intuitive world map, you can select a target location and observe the potential consequences of a collision in real-time.
Customizable Impact Scenarios
Unlike typical simulation games, Asteroid Launcher incorporates scientific models to estimate the effects of an asteroid strike. Players can customize various parameters of the asteroid, including its composition, diameter, speed, and angle of entry. Each adjustment influences the outcome significantly—altering factors such as crater size, fireball radius, shockwave intensity, wind velocity, and seismic activity.
Detailed Aftermath Analysis
After launching an asteroid, users receive a detailed summary of the simulated disaster. This includes projections of casualties, the area affected by each type of damage, and visual breakdowns of how cities and populations nearby would be impacted. Multiple simulations can be run without restriction, allowing for experimentation with different scenarios.
Limitations in Navigation
One limitation is the lack of a search function for specific places—you’ll need to manually pan and zoom to your desired location. That said, the high-resolution map interface helps identify cities and landmarks with ease, especially when zoomed in.
Educational and Engaging
Asteroid Launcher serves as both a compelling simulation and an educational resource. It’s suitable for users curious about planetary science or disaster modeling, offering insights into how asteroid characteristics influence the extent of devastation on Earth. Despite minor navigation quirks, it’s a highly engaging tool for learning and exploration.
