Asteroid Apophis won't hit Earth, but space debris poses a 'serious problem' for study

The asteroid Apophis, discovered in 2004, will make an exceptionally close pass by Earth in 2029, but scientists assure it poses no direct collision threat. However, recent research suggests its proximity could trigger other significant consequences, primarily concerning scientific observation. Italian scientists, in a study published in 'The Planetary Science Journal,' highlight that the dense field of space debris orbiting Earth could potentially disrupt the study of Apophis. This close fly-by presents a unique opportunity to understand asteroids better, as Earth's strong gravitational pull will significantly alter Apophis's rotation and could even trigger surface landslides, revealing its internal structure. Two spacecraft, ESA's RAMSES mission and NASA's OSIRIS-APEX, are slated to observe this event. The primary concern is that an unexpected impulse from space debris could interfere with scientists' ability to distinguish between changes caused by Earth's gravity and those resulting from debris impacts. The researchers hope their work will contribute to more comprehensive studies of high-altitude space debris. Apophis, measuring approximately 375 meters in diameter, belongs to the Aten group of near-Earth asteroids and is named after the ancient Egyptian serpent demon of chaos and darkness. Its close approach on April 13, 2029, will bring it within about 32,000 kilometers of our planet.

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The asteroid Apophis will not collide with Earth. Researchers point to another 'serious problem'.