Asteroid Apophis Will Pass 19,630 Miles From Earth, Visible to 3.9 Billion in 2029
Updated
Updated · Techno-Science · Jul 13
Asteroid Apophis Will Pass 19,630 Miles From Earth, Visible to 3.9 Billion in 2029
3 articles · Updated · Techno-Science · Jul 13
Summary
19,630 miles from Earth, Apophis will make its closest known pass on April 13, 2029—nearer than geostationary satellites—and remain visible to the naked eye for about seven hours.
3.9 billion people across a broad path from Australia to the North Atlantic could see it as a bright, slowly moving point of light, provided skies are clear and light pollution is low.
Earth poses no danger from the flyby, but its gravity will reshape Apophis' solar orbit and may trigger landslides or expose fresh material on the roughly 333-meter asteroid.
Scientists plan intensive observations from sites including the Canary Islands, using the encounter as a rare chance to study how a near-Earth asteroid responds to strong tidal forces.
Apophis was discovered in 2004 and briefly carried a 1-in-37 impact risk for 2029, but precise tracking has ruled out any collision for at least the next 100 years.
Apophis is a scientific prize, but what is the plan for an asteroid threat discovered on a direct collision course?
If Earth's gravity can cause quakes on Apophis, could it also fracture the asteroid, creating new, unpredicted hazards?
Apophis 2029: The Historic Close Flyby, Scientific Breakthroughs, and Planetary Defense Lessons
Overview
In 2029, asteroid 99942 Apophis will make a very close approach to Earth, creating a rare celestial spectacle that excites both scientists and the public. This flyby poses no impact risk, so people can watch with fascination instead of worry. Space agencies and scientific institutions worldwide are preparing to take full advantage of this event, planning observations from Earth-based telescopes and dedicated spacecraft missions. The close encounter offers an exceptional opportunity for scientific research and public engagement, allowing experts to study Apophis up close and share the experience with audiences around the globe.