In 2029, the asteroid Apophis, also known as the "God of Chaos", will make a passage so close to the Earth that can generate tremors in our gravitational field. But despite the impressive proximity, there is no risk of collision. This passage offers scientists a unique opportunity to observe the asteroid closely and study its composition and trajectory.
In this article, we will explore what is Apophis, what its passage from 2029 means to science and how researchers are preparing for the event.
What is Apophis "God of chaos"?
Apophis is an asteroid with about 370 meters in diameter, discovered in 2004 by the astronomers of the Kitt Peak Observatory in Arizona. His name, inspired by the Egyptian deity associated with chaos and destruction, reflects the impact that his initial trajectory caused in the scientific community, with speculations about the risk of a collision with Earth. Although the probability of impact has been dropped, Apophis remains one of the scientists' most observed asteroids due to its size and proximity to our planet.
The Passage of 2029
The asteroid Apophis will pass only 31,000 kilometers from Earth in 2029. To give an idea, this distance is closer than the orbit of some communication satellites. Although the risk of collision has been removed, which makes this event especially interesting is the phenomenon of gravitational impact. This event can cause minor changes in the orbit of the asteroid, creating tremors in the gravitational field of Earth.
The Gravitational Impact: Tremores in Earth's Gravitational Field
When an asteroid approaches both a planet, gravitational forces can affect both the asteroid and the planet itself. In the case of Apophis, scientists are observing how Earth's gravitational field can interact with the asteroid, creating what are called "gravitational tremors". Although they are not "tremors" in the conventional sense (such as those caused by earthquakes), these fluctuations can provide valuable data on the composition and internal structure of Apophis, as well as assisting in understanding the gravitational interactions between asteroids and planets.
The Scientific Observation of Apophis
The proximity of Apophis in 2029 will be a unique opportunity for astronomers to observe the asteroid in more detail. NASA and other space agencies plan to use telescopes and spacecraft to study their surface, composition and behavior. Radar techniques, for example, will allow you to map the asteroid structure and determine the density and composition of the material that composes it. This data will be crucial to understand the formation and evolution of asteroids, as well as contribute to studies on planetary defense.
How Scientists Prepare for the Event
Preparation for the passage of Apophis includes continuous monitoring of your trajectory. NASA, along with other international space agencies, is attentive to any alteration in its orbit that may pose some risk to Earth, even if remote. In addition, scientists are using supercomputers to simulate several approximation scenarios, ensuring that the 2029 event is not a surprise.
The Role of NASA in Planetary Defense
Although the risk of impact of Apophis is minimal, this event highlights the importance of planetary defense. NASA and other organizations are increasingly investing in the monitoring of asteroids and the research of techniques to divert objects that can pose a danger to our planet. The development of technologies to detect and divert asteroids, such as the DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) system, is an important step in protecting Earth from possible future threats.
Impacts of Asteroids on Earth
Earth's history has already been marked by significant impacts of asteroids. The event that led to the extinction of dinosaurs is just an example of how these celestial bodies can affect life on the planet. With the advancement of technology and increased awareness of the risk of collisions, strategies to protect the Earth are evolving rapidly.
In the end
Apophis, the "God of Chaos", continues to fascinate scientists and astronomers around the world, especially with their near passage in 2029. Although the risk of collision has been dropped, the event offers a unique opportunity for scientific study. The observation of Apophis may bring significant advances in the understanding of asteroids and in the preparation for future threats of space.
