NASA has announced the scheduled close approach of a rare, massive asteroid named Apophis, which will pass by Earth in 2029. This event will mark the closest encounter with an asteroid of this size in human history. Apophis, named after the ancient Egyptian God of chaos and destruction, will come within 20,000 miles of Earth, closer than many satellites in orbit and nearly 12 times closer than the moon.
Initially considered a potential threat for impact in 2029, 2036, or 2068, astronomers have monitored Apophis since its discovery in 2004, using telescopes and radar to refine its orbit. Recent data indicates that there is no risk of Apophis striking Earth for at least a century. Previously, there was a 2.7% chance of impact, but new observations in 2021 ruled out any danger.
The upcoming close approach in 2029 will allow scientists a rare opportunity to study this colossal asteroid up close. Standing at approximately 1,230 feet tall, Apophis is slightly taller than the Eiffel Tower and is estimated to resemble a peanut in shape. NASA is currently monitoring over 2,000 near-Earth objects for potential close encounters, with the majority posing no threat to the planet.
The last catastrophic asteroid impact on Earth occurred 66 million years ago, leading to the extinction of dinosaurs. This upcoming event will provide valuable insights into the behavior of these celestial bodies and their potential effects on our planet.
