Tech Desk
Aug 05, 2024
Apophis, a peanut-shaped structure asteroid, is set to make a close approach to Earth in 2029, this marks a rare chance for scientists to study a massive space rock up close. Apophis is expected to pass by Earth at 10 times the speed of a bullet and come closer to Earth than weather satellites on April 13, 2029.
This will provide a highly visible astronomical event to the naked eye from parts of Western Europe and Africa — thus, a very unusual view for the skygazers.
Initial calculations by scientists gave Apophis a 2.7% chance of colliding with the Earth, but it was later ruled out as posing no impact risk for the next 100 years. The research team is now keenly interested in knowing more about this asteroid and its composition.
How will Apophis impact Earth?
Apophis is an exciting target for space exploration. It is believed that several secrets concerning the formation of the solar system and the origin of Earth's water will be revealed through research into Apophis.
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The time remaining to develop and launch missions for the study of Apophis is running out. OSIRIS-APEX is the only formally agreed mission, and it won't reach the asteroid until two months after its closest approach.
Scientists are rushing to propose new missions and revamp the old ones to make the most of them. Among the proposals is the Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety (Ramses), put forward by the European Space Agency, which would link up with Apophis two months before the flyby.
The Apophis asteroid's close call in 2029 offers a rare chance for scientists to study a massive space rock up close.
