Abstract
Planetary Science![Figure][1] Optical image showing chondrules in a meteorite fragment. PHOTO: YVES MARROCCHI How strong is an asteroid? Earth rocks are poor analogs because of differences in composition, gravity during formation, and geologic processing. Cotto-Figueroa et al. tested samples from two large meteorites (pieces of asteroid that have fallen to Earth) by crushing them in a vice to measure the bulk material properties. By comparing cubes of different sizes, they extrapolated the strength of meter-sized asteroids, finding values that are consistent with the observed break-up of meteors as they enter Earth's atmosphere. The results will be useful for planning sample return or asteroid mining missions or for deflecting potentially hazardous asteroids away from Earth. Icarus 277 , 73 (2016). [1]: pending:yes
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