Discovery & Characteristics
Discovered: June 19, 2004, by astronomers at the Kitt Peak National Observatory.
Size: About 370 meters (1,210 feet) in diameter.
Composition: Likely a stony (S-type) asteroid.
Speed: Travels at roughly 30.73 km/s (68,800 mph) relative to Earth.
Impact Risk & Close Approaches
2029 Close Approach:
On April 13, 2029, Apophis will pass within 31,600 km (19,600 miles) of Earth.
This is closer than some satellites in geostationary orbit.
It will be visible to the naked eye in some parts of the world.
No impact risk in 2029, but Earth’s gravity may slightly alter its trajectory.
2036 & Beyond:
Initially, there was concern about a possible impact in 2036, but NASA has ruled this out.
Further observations confirm no risk of collision for at least 100 years.
Scientific Significance
The close pass in 2029 provides a rare opportunity to study the asteroid’s composition, rotation, and trajectory.
NASA and other space agencies are planning observations and possibly missions to study it up close.
Would you like insights on possible future asteroid deflection methods or its potential effects if it were to hit Earth?
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