What is #planetaryprotection? Besides sounding like a phrase from a sci-fi movie, it's a vital practise that ensures we don't accidentally contaminate extra-terrestrial environments. Yes, there are rules to help prevent microscopic organisms from Earth reaching other celestial bodies, as The Open University's senior lecturer in physical sciences, Vic Pearson, explains in this short video. Discover more in the new 'Planetary protection' course from The Open University (which Vic co-authored) on O

6.6K views · 119 reactions | To save the Earth from asteroid threats, nations must come together. Here's why it's so important for us all: | The Planetary Society | Facebook

We can't defend our planet alone. But we aren't alone! The efforts to protect our world from asteroid impacts have advanced dramatically because of people like you. There is no better time to make a difference. Help defend Earth today at: http://planet.ly/DefendEarth | The Planetary Society