Free Divine Destruction (The Return of Divinity Book 1) by Lester Suggs Page A

Larry dismissed his fears. He had his own questions. Why wasn't Green X2018d destroyed with those first belt collisions? Why hadn't Green X2018d changed course from so many collisions with much larger bodies? And, where did Green X2018d originate? Dr. Fountain had pointed out there were no sightings of a comet within that range of space until this morning. The Dr. commented a comet that seemed to come from nowhere had made a significant impact to the surrounding asteroid field.
    During the next few hours, Larry’s email blew up, becoming a riot of activity. He was being copied on each conversation thread. One scientist postulated Green X2018d was made of an unknown, super dense material, possibly star matter, which struck the field beyond light speed. However, that idea didn't gain traction and was left on its own to fade. There were many emails, like this one, based on speculation.
    By 2:00 p.m. PDT many eyes were trying to find and track Green X2018d, i.e. Gabriel. Unfortunately, most land-based digital eyes, under the control of NEO, were blinded by the Sun during daytime observation, and most orbiting arrays were tied to more important and specific terrestrial and astrological projects, mostly spying on other countries.
    At 0:27 a.m GMT, 8:27 p.m. EST, a report came from Mount Brukkaros, Namibia, that observers had located Green X2018d but indicated a course change. The SAO and the outside bodies of IAU requested more information and verification. The new information wasn't good.
     
    Director Frank Lovas was multitasking behind his ancient metal desk. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy's director preferred metal desks over wood. The White House was full of historic wooden desks from America’s past. But Frank felt metal was more practical. His desk was never at a pivotal battle during the American Civil War, nor was it exposed to gas from a Nobel Winning Scientist. But Frank knew for his own investigation, the desk was constructed, by real Americans, from a manufacturer in Youngstown, Ohio back in 1974. Frank was annoyed when his phone rang. He was having a usual day: more work than time.
    ”Director Lovas,” Frank said after punching the speaker button.
    “Dr. Matt, again, Frank,” said Dr. Matt Fountain of NASA’s Space Telescope Science Institute.
    “Yes, Matt, what do you have for me?” Frank asked throwing his full attention to the phone.
    “I have more specific data Frank.” Dr. Matt Fountain continued, "We are looking at land fall in western Pennsylvania".
    There was no immediate response. Frank Lovas' mind blurred with what was about to happen.
    "Dr. the comet will strike the United States?" Frank asked in a hushed voice.
    "Frank, we sent the new numbers down the NEO JPL guys, they're very good at what they do. Right now, there's little doubt otherwise. But ‘strike’ is not a correct term.”
    The was another uneasy pause. "Everyone cleared for this threat level here has run the numbers. We have many facts in our favor Frank. That part of the country is rural; country and farms mostly between Pittsburgh and Erie. The NEO is small and will probably burn completely in the atmosphere.”
    Matt was trying to be reassuring, but from Frank's lack of chatter, he guessed the Director was concerned.
    “Given angle of ascent and size the comet, it may bounce and only give us a pretty show,” Matt said.
    “Do you have a precise event time now?” Frank asked.
    “2:00 a.m. EST Wednesday morning,” Dr. Matt said matter-of-factly. “In 24 hours I can give you an impact location down to the quarter mile,” Dr. Matt added.
    “Doctor, will you call me tomorrow at this same time with exact coordinates. Promise me you won't give that data to anyone else. Then give me 15 minutes before further disclosure?" Another uneasy pause.
    Dr. Matt said firmly, “Director, that is all I can give you. NASA must go public after that.”
    “What kinda of damage are you expecting, Doctor?” Frank asked.