Asteroids have been a long subject of discussion of fascination and fear, with one of the most talked about space rocks being 99942 Apophis, also known as the ‘God of Chaos.’ This massive asteroid is set to come extremely close to the Earth on Friday, April 13, 2029. Named after the Egyptian deity of chaos and destruction, this large asteroid may even be visible to the naked eye during its flyby. The asteroid has raised concerns about its potential collision with Earth. Asteroid Apophis will pass the Earth within 30,600 kilometres (19,000 miles). In this article, we’ll learn about the asteroid Apophis close approach, the potential risks and more.

New Research on Potential Risks

As per recent studies, if Apophis were to collide with smaller space debris, it could slightly alter its path. Though unlikely, such a change in path could increase the chances of future collision with Earth. Paul Wiegert, an astronomer at the University of Western Ontario, stated, “The odds of an unseen small asteroid deflecting Apophis enough to direct it into a collision with Earth in 2029 are approximately 10-8. Given that only 5 percent of such impulses are in the correct direction to generate an Earth impact, the overall probability of a small impact directing Apophis into a collision with the Earth is less than one in two billion.” Asteroid Apophis, the ‘God of Destruction’ To Fly by the Earth in 2029, Should You Be Concerned? Here’s What To Know.

The asteroid Apophis was first discovered in 2004 and initially sparked concern due to its size and trajectory. However, after a close observation in March 2001, NASA confirmed that Apophis poses no threat to Earth for at least the next century. “Studies confirm there is no risk of asteroid 99942 Apophis impacting Earth for at least another century. Originally identified in 2004, new data have better defined the orbit of Apophis, putting astronomers at ease,” NASA reassured.

Potential Deflection Scenarios

Wiegert’s recent research reveals how a collision with a smaller asteroid, around 60 centimetres (24 inches) in size, could potentially shift Apophis onto a dangerous path. However, such events are pretty rare.

If Apophis were ever on a collision course with Earth, scientists have considered several deflection techniques. In 2022, NASA successfully tested one method with its Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART), which showcased the possibility of altering an asteroid’s course. However, the effectiveness of this method on an asteroid like Apophis is still uncertain, but it provides a potential solution.

Other Deflection Methods

Other methods include using nuclear weapons to divert the path of the asteroid or painting its surface to change its trajectory. While these approaches are scientifically feasible, they have not yet been tested on a large scale.

Although the chances of Apophis impacting the Earth in 2029 are extremely low, its close flyby presents valuable opportunities for future scientific research. It is also a reminder of the need to stay vigilant about near-Earth objects. This will allow experts to enhance asteroid impact prevention techniques and explore future preparedness strategies.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 20, 2024 10:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).