Will Asteroid Apophis Hit Earth in 2029?

Apophis, a substantial asteroid approximately 1,100 feet wide, is approaching Earth, but the good news is that it’s not going to impact our planet. The concerns surrounding Apophis began when it was first discovered in 2004, and astronomers calculated a 2.7% chance of it colliding with Earth in 2029. This alarming possibility led to its name, “Apophis,” after the Egyptian god of chaos, reflecting the potential havoc it could wreak.

However, the situation evolved over time as scientists continued to monitor the asteroid’s trajectory. By March 2021, NASA had confirmed that there is, in fact, zero chance of Apophis striking Earth for at least the next 100 years. This reassurance provided relief in the asteroid-tracking community and allowed for a shift from doomsday scenarios to scientific exploration.

On Friday, April 13, 2029, Apophis will make an incredibly close approach to Earth. It will pass within approximately 19,000 miles above the planet’s surface, which is about one-tenth the distance to the moon. While this proximity might sound alarming, there’s no need to worry about ducking or preparing for a fiery spectacle in the sky. Apophis will not pose any immediate threat to us.

During this close encounter, Apophis will be visible with the naked eye from parts of Europe and Africa. In Los Angeles, experienced stargazers might even spot it with binoculars around 3:30 a.m. on April 13, adding to the excitement for astronomy enthusiasts. It presents an unprecedented opportunity for scientists to observe an asteroid of this size up close.

Lance Benner, a principal scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), expressed the significance of this event, saying, “We’ve never seen something that large get that close.” The close approach of an asteroid of this magnitude to Earth occurs only every few thousand years, and this time, nature is providing the flyby for researchers.

Apophis is not just an ordinary space rock; it is shaped like a peanut shell and is considered a “contact binary” asteroid. Composed of nickel, iron, and silicate, it’s a relic from the early days of the solar system, dating back 4.6 billion years. Scientists are eager to study its physical properties, as it holds valuable information about the history of our solar system and the origins of celestial bodies.

Moreover, this close encounter with Apophis will allow researchers to use ground-based tools that have never before been deployed for an asteroid of this size. It’s a unique opportunity to gain insights into the asteroid’s composition and structure, providing invaluable data for future Planetary Defense efforts.

While Apophis serves as a reminder of the potential risks posed by asteroids, it also exemplifies the importance of ongoing asteroid tracking and research. As we continue to explore space and understand these celestial objects better, we are better equipped to protect our planet from potential impacts. As Paul Chodas, who manages NASA’s Near-Earth Object Program Office at JPL, said, “Learning about the composition will help us understand the history of the solar system and where these things came from.”

Asteroid Apophis

Asteroid Apophis, a celestial object of significant interest and concern, has a rich history intertwined with its discovery. This space rock, named after the Egyptian god of chaos, was first spotted by astronomers Roy Tucker, David Tholen, and Fabrizio Bernardi at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona on June 19, 2004.

Initially, Apophis garnered worldwide attention due to early calculations suggesting a 2.7% chance of a catastrophic collision with Earth in 2029. This alarming revelation prompted extensive observations and research by the scientific community, resulting in a refined understanding of Apophis’ trajectory and potential threats.

As astronomers tracked the asteroid’s orbit more closely, the initial fears gradually subsided. By 2006, it became clear that Apophis would not strike Earth in 2029. However, this celestial visitor continued to intrigue scientists due to its unprecedented proximity. Apophis’ discovery and subsequent research have transformed it from a potential harbinger of catastrophe into a celestial object of scientific fascination.