In a celestial event that is sure to grip the world in awe, the ‘God of Chaos’ asteroid, Apophis, will make an exceptionally close approach to Earth in April 2029. The 1,115-foot-wide (340 meters) asteroid will pass so close to our planet that it will be visible to the naked eye, offering an unparalleled opportunity for scientists and amateur astronomers alike.
Named after the Ancient Egyptian god of chaos and destruction, Apophis is expected to be seen by nearly two billion people worldwide as it sails past Earth at a distance closer than that of many operational satellites. This once-in-a-lifetime event will provide an extraordinary spectacle for humanity while offering invaluable insights to scientists studying these celestial bodies.
Apophis, discovered in 2004, has been the subject of significant attention due to its size and its close encounters with Earth. Initial calculations indicated a small probability of the asteroid colliding with Earth in 2029, a scenario that has since been ruled out by further observations. However, the 2029 event will still mark the closest approach by an asteroid of such considerable size.
As the God of Chaos approaches, it will first become visible to the naked eye in the night sky over the southern hemisphere, streaking across the expanse from the east coast of Australia to the west coast of Africa in just an hour. As it travels, the asteroid will shine with the brightness of the stars in the Little Dipper, making it easily spotable without the need for telescopic equipment.
For scientists, this close encounter is more than just a spectacular show. It presents a unique opportunity to study the composition, structure, and properties of asteroids in unprecedented detail. Observations made during the event could potentially inform future asteroid impact mitigation strategies, a key area of research as we continue to explore and understand our place in the cosmos.
“While Apophis is almost certainly not a threat to Earth, understanding the characteristics of this asteroid can help us prepare for other potential asteroid encounters in the future,” said Dr. Marina Brozović, a radar scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Moreover, the event will allow scientists to test our global asteroid tracking network, ensuring its readiness in the face of any future asteroid threats.
While the God of Chaos’ visit in 2029 is assured to be a safe one, it serves as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of our universe. As we look up at the night sky in awe and anticipation, we are not just spectators but active participants in understanding and safeguarding our shared cosmic home.
Mark your calendars, stargazers. The God of Chaos is coming, and it promises to be a show you won’t want to miss.
Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/2-billion-people-will-be-able-to-see-god-of-chaos-asteroid-apophis-when-it-buzzes-earth-in-april-2029.