Since its discovery in 2004, astronomers have been closely following its path as it could pose a risk to the planet. The celestial body has a diameter of 340 metres.
In recent times, the asteroid 99942 Apophis, nicknamed “The God of Chaos”has captured the attention of the scientific community, since Its trajectory could endanger Earth. NASA is closely following each of its movements, since the celestial body could represent a threat to the planet.
NASA’s Small Body Assessment Group has reported that this asteroid has a diameter of 340 meters. His existence was revealed on June 19, 2004, thanks to astronomer Roy A. Tucker, who detected it from the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona, United States. Scientists have estimated that Apophis will come dangerously close to Earth in the year 2029.
The OSIRIS-REx mission: NASA’s plan
To address this potential risk, NASA plans to use the OSIRIS probewhich is part of the OSIRIS-REx mission. This spacecraft is set to take on a new challenge in 2029, when it will enter the orbit of Apophis. The main objective will be get high resolution images, monitor the rotation of the asteroid and carry out a detailed analysis that will allow us to deepen our knowledge about this space object.
asteroid- planet.jpg
According to experts’ projections, The asteroid will pass at a distance of just 31,000 kilometers from Earth on Friday, April 13, 2029. To put this into perspective, it will be 10 times closer than the Moon. This proximity will allow it to be observed with the naked eye in regions such as Australia, Africa and southwest Asia. As it continues its journey, it will also could be visible in parts of South America and North America.
Source: Ambito
I am Pierce Boyd, a driven and ambitious professional working in the news industry. I have been writing for 24 Hours Worlds for over five years, specializing in sports section coverage. During my tenure at the publication, I have built an impressive portfolio of articles that has earned me a reputation as an experienced journalist and content creator.
