The Earth is a dynamic planet that has been constantly changing since it came into being. Driven by powerful convection cells inside the Earth, continents drift, giving rise to earthquakes, volcanoes and mountain ranges. Organisms living on land, in the water or in the air must adapt to these changes and, in turn, have an impact on their habitat and system Earth. It is this interdependence that makes our planet unique in the solar system.
In addition, the Earth is also connected to the cosmos surrounding it. Every day, cosmic rock material hits the earth – mostly just the size of a speck of dust, but occasionally, meteorites with a diameter of several kilometres can hit the Earth and pose a danger for life on the planet. These interconnected processes are studied by scientists at the Museum. What drives the dynamics of planet Earth? How are individual processes interconnected? These are the questions the exhibition System Earth is trying to answer.
Google Arts & Culture provides virtual access to the Museum für Naturkunde, which can be explored through online exhibitions and 360 degree views.