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All About Apophis: The Near-Earth Asteroid to Watch in 2029

Key Facts and Collaborative Missions for Apophis

All About Apophis: The Near-Earth Asteroid to Watch in 2029

  • 09 Aug, 2024
  • 296

What is Apophis?

Apophis (99942 Apophis) is a near-Earth asteroid that was discovered in 2004. It has garnered attention due to its unique trajectory and potential interactions with Earth.

Initial Concerns About Apophis

Initially, observations raised concerns about the possibility of Apophis impacting Earth in 2029. However, subsequent analyses have ruled out this threat.

Close Approach to Earth

In 2029, Apophis is expected to pass within 32,000 kilometers of our planet. This close approach offers an exceptional opportunity for scientific study.

Significance of the 2029 Approach

The significance of Apophis's 2029 approach lies in the unique chance it provides for observation and research. Scientists can gather valuable data on its composition and behavior.

Space Agencies Involved in Studying Apophis

NASA, ESA, and other international space agencies are planning missions to study Apophis during its close encounter. These collaborative efforts are crucial for advancing our understanding of near-Earth objects.

ISRO's Role in the Ramses Mission

ISRO is looking to collaborate with ESA on the Ramses mission, which aims to track and study Apophis during its close approach in 2029.

Overview of the Ramses Mission

The Ramses mission is a newly announced initiative by ESA to observe Apophis during its upcoming close encounter with Earth. This mission will enhance our knowledge of asteroids.

Ongoing Interest in Apophis

Despite the fact that Apophis is no longer considered a threat, it remains an object of scientific interest. Its study contributes to our understanding of planetary defense and asteroid dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main concern with Apophis?
Answer: Initially, there were fears it might collide with Earth in 2029, but further studies have eliminated this concern.

Q2. How close will Apophis come to Earth in 2029?
Answer: Apophis will pass within 32,000 kilometers of Earth, providing a unique opportunity for observation.

Q3. Which missions are planned for Apophis?
Answer: NASA, ESA, and other agencies are preparing missions to study Apophis during its close encounter in 2029.

Q4. What is the Ramses mission?
Answer: The Ramses mission, led by ESA, aims to study Apophis during its close approach in 2029 to gather scientific data.

Q5. Why is Apophis still important for science?
Answer: Apophis remains significant for research and planetary defense efforts, despite not being a threat to Earth.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What year was Apophis discovered?
A) 2000
B) 2004
C) 2010
D) 2015
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is the significance of Apophis's close approach in 2029?
A) Potential impact
B) Scientific observation
C) Asteroid mining
D) Space tourism
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which space agency is collaborating with ISRO for the Ramses mission?
A) NASA
B) ESA
C) JAXA
D) CNSA
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: How far will Apophis pass from Earth in 2029?
A) 10,000 km
B) 20,000 km
C) 32,000 km
D) 50,000 km
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What type of object is Apophis?
A) Comet
B) Planet
C) Near-Earth asteroid
D) Satellite
Correct Answer: C

Question 6: What was the initial concern regarding Apophis?
A) Its size
B) Its trajectory
C) Its composition
D) Its orbit
Correct Answer: B

Question 7: Why is ongoing research on Apophis important?
A) For asteroid mining
B) For planetary defense
C) For space tourism
D) For space colonization
Correct Answer: B

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