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Potentially Hazardous Asteroid 'Apophis' to Pass Near Earth in 2029
🇬🇷 Greece /Environment & Climate

Potentially Hazardous Asteroid 'Apophis' to Pass Near Earth in 2029

From Ta Nea · (6m ago) Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • A potentially hazardous asteroid named Apophis will pass by Earth in 2029 at a close distance, marking the nearest approach ever recorded for a celestial body of its size.
  • NASA states the asteroid will pass safely, but its close proximity and size make this a rare event, prompting study by NASA and ESA.
  • Apophis is composed of primordial material from the solar system's formation and will undergo gravitational distortion by Earth, altering its orbit and potentially its rotation.

The recent news of the asteroid Apophis passing by Earth in 2029 has understandably caused a stir, but it's crucial to understand the scientific perspective. While the name 'Apophis,' derived from the ancient Egyptian god of chaos, might sound alarming, NASA has assured us that the asteroid will pass safely. This close approach, however, is a significant scientific opportunity.

will pass safely

— NASANASA's statement regarding the asteroid's proximity to Earth.

For us in Greece, with our deep historical connection to ancient mythology and astronomy, the naming of celestial bodies often carries profound meaning. Apophis, the embodiment of chaos, serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of the cosmos. Yet, it also highlights humanity's enduring quest to understand and predict these cosmic events.

less than the distance of many geostationary satellites

— NASANASA's statement comparing the asteroid's passing distance to that of geostationary satellites.

This event is not just a distant astronomical curiosity; it's a chance to deepen our understanding of the solar system's formation and the forces that shape planetary orbits. The fact that Apophis will be significantly affected by Earth's gravity, potentially altering its trajectory and rotation, is a testament to the dynamic interplay of celestial mechanics. It's a moment for scientific collaboration and a reminder of our place within a vast and ever-changing universe.

primordial material that was never part of a planet or moon

— NASANASA's description of the asteroid's composition.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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