Apophis is an asteroid that is projected to pass within 20,000 miles of Earth’s surface on April 13, 2029. Despite its initial reputation as a potentially hazardous space rock, astronomers have ruled out any risk of impact during this close approach. Apophis measures nearly a quarter of a mile long and will be visible to the naked eye as it flies past Earth. Space agencies and scientific institutes around the world are planning to study Apophis during this rare flyby using telescopes and spacecraft. The asteroid has been monitored closely by astronomers, who have determined that it poses no risk of crashing into Earth for at least a century. While Apophis won’t hit Earth, scientists see this as an opportunity to study the asteroid and gain insights into other space rocks that could pose a threat. NASA and other space agencies are taking steps to protect Earth from potential impacts by conducting missions and developing technologies to deflect hazardous asteroids. The upcoming flyby of Apophis will provide valuable data to help improve our understanding of near-Earth objects and enhance planetary defense capabilities.
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What you need to know about Asteroid Apophis approaching Earth in 2029
