19. The Overview Effect and Planetary Defense

Astronauts, cosmonauts, and space travelers from all nations of the Earth have reported a similar response to seeing their home planet from orbit or the Moon. They experience a phenomenon defined by the author as “The Overview Effect,” a realization that the borders and boundaries that have been drawn on the globe fade when seen from a distance, and an understanding that the Earth is like a fragile spaceship moving rapidly through an immense universe filled with danger. In this chapter, the author explores the implications of the Overview Effect for planetary defense. Can the Overview Effect play a key role in bringing the people of Earth together to protect the home planet from challenges as diverse as climate change and an asteroid impact?