On April 13, 2029, asteroid 99942 Apophis will make a close approach to Earth.
Understanding Apophis
- Apophis is a near-Earth asteroid discovered in 2004.
- It is estimated to be about 1,100 feet (340 meters) in diameter.
- It is classified as a Potentially Hazardous Asteroid (PHA).
The 2029 Flyby
- On April 13, 2029, Apophis will fly by Earth at a distance of 19,000 miles (30,000 kilometers). This is closer than some satellites orbit Earth.
- While this is a close approach, it is not a threat of impact.
- The flyby will be visible to the naked eye from parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Future Encounters
- Future encounters between Earth and Apophis are still being studied and predicted.
- The flyby in 2029 will provide valuable data to improve our understanding of Apophis's trajectory and potential future impacts.
It is important to note that the 2029 flyby of Apophis is not a threat to Earth. It is a unique opportunity for scientists to study a near-Earth asteroid up close and improve our understanding of these celestial objects.
