Asteroid Apophis to Make Historic Close Approach to Earth in 2029

Asteroid Apophis, measuring approximately 1,115 feet in diameter, is set to pass within 20,000 miles of Earth's surface on April 13, 2029. This distance is closer than many geosynchronous satellites, which orbit at about 22,236 miles above the equator.

Discovered in 2004 by astronomers Roy Tucker, David Tholen, and Fabrizio Bernardi at Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona, Apophis was initially considered a potential threat. However, extensive observations have ruled out any risk of impact for at least the next 100 years.

The upcoming flyby presents a rare opportunity for scientific research. NASA has redirected the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, now renamed OSIRIS-APEX, to rendezvous with Apophis shortly after its close approach. The mission aims to study the asteroid's surface and composition in detail.

Observers in the Eastern Hemisphere will have the chance to see Apophis with the naked eye during its 2029 flyby, weather permitting. Such a close approach by an asteroid of this size is an event that occurs approximately once every few thousand years.

Scientists are particularly interested in how Earth's gravitational pull during the close encounter might affect Apophis's structure and orbit. The data collected will enhance understanding of near-Earth objects and inform planetary defense strategies.