Asteroid 99942 Apophis, discovered in 2004 and named after the ancient Egyptian god of chaos, has garnered the attention of the astronomical community due to its once-potential risk of colliding with Earth, initially considered for 2029, 2036, and 2068. Over time, scientists refined Apophis’s trajectory. In 2021, they conclusively removed it from the list of potentially hazardous objects for at least the next century, confirming that there is no impact risk.
According to NASA, the asteroid measures approximately 375 meters across and has a surface exposed to solar wind and cosmic radiation. During its upcoming flyby, Earth’s gravity will slightly alter its orbit, but this will pose no threat. Post flyby, Apophis will remain part of the “Apollo” group of asteroids, which cross Earth’s orbit but travel broader paths around the Sun.
This event presents scientists with a unique opportunity to study the asteroid up close, and under favorable conditions, it may even be visible to the naked eye in the night sky over Europe, Asia, and Africa. Space agencies are already adapting their research programs: the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is modifying its mission to journey towards Apophis, and the European Space Agency is planning to launch the RAMSES probe by 2028. Other countries are expected to join these initiatives, although precise plans have yet to be disclosed.
Thus, the flyby of Apophis will not only be a significant astronomical event but also a crucial step in advancing the scientific investigation of asteroids that could potentially approach Earth.