A lot of people think Dec. 21 2012 is the end of the ancient Mayan calendar, which means the world will come to an end at that time.
NASA scientists say not to to buy into the hysteria.
The space agency has prepared a nice FAQ ahead of the fateful December date that quashes any notions of the world coming to a sudden halt, and a brief history of where the idea started.
The rumor stems, in part, from a misinterpretation of how the Mayan calender works.
Just as the calendar you have on your kitchen wall does not cease to exist after December 31, the Mayan calendar does not cease to exist on December 21, 2012. This date is the end of the Mayan long-count period but then — just as your calendar begins again on January 1 — another long-count period begins for the Mayan calendar.
That's reassuring.
SEE ALSO: 7 Reasons The World Will Not End On Dec. 21