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Russia Eyes Apophis Asteroid: Close Earth Approach in 2029
13 Apr
Summary
- Russian scientists plan a mission to asteroid Apophis by 2029.
- Apophis will pass Earth at 32,000 km, closer than satellites.
- The asteroid was discovered in 2004 and is 400 by 250 meters.
A pioneering mission plan is being formulated by the Skobeltsyn Research Institute of Nuclear Physics at Lomonosov Moscow State University to explore the asteroid Apophis. This large celestial body is anticipated to make a very close approach to Earth in the spring of 2029.
During its 2029 flyby, Apophis will pass within 32,000 kilometers of Earth, a distance closer than that of some geostationary satellites. Scientists are conceptualizing a mission utilizing small spacecraft to reach Apophis by 2029 for close-range inspections.
Discovered in 2004, Apophis is an elongated asteroid, approximately 400 by 250 meters in size. Its name derives from an ancient Egyptian deity of destruction. Scientists predict potential further close encounters in 2036 and 2068, underscoring the need for early reconnaissance.
