Discover how NASA OSIRIS-APEX Mission is ready to reveal the secrets of the asteroid Apophis, a space rock with a fascinating history.
What is the OSIRIS-APEX mission?
A OSIRIS-APEX (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer) is a NASA spacecraft that has been reused for a new mission. Originally known as OSIRIS-REx, she collected samples from the asteroid Bennu and is now leaving to study Apophis, an asteroid that will pass incredibly close to Earth in 2029.
This mission aims to understand the composition, structure and behavior of objects close to Earth (NEOs), providing valuable insights into planetary defense and space science.
Why Apophis?
Apophis, once considered a potential threat to Earth, is an asteroid of approximately 370 meters wide that will pass only 32,000 kilometers from our planet in 2029. This rare event offers a unique opportunity to study an asteroid closely.
- Main reasons why NASA chose Apophis:
- Its approach allows detailed observations.
- It's a "S" asteroid, rich in silicate materials.
- Studying it helps refine asteroid deflection strategies.
OSIRIS-APEX Mission Objectives
The mission has four main objectives:
- Maple Apophis: Create detailed maps of the surface to understand its shape and composition.
- Review Regolito: Study the surface material to learn about your history.
- Monitor Changes: Observe how Apophis reacts to Earth's gravity during its approach.
- Planetary Defense: Collect data to improve asteroid threat mitigation strategies.
Like OSIRIS-APEX Works
The spacecraft is equipped with advanced instruments including:
- Cameras: High resolution images for surface mapping.
- Spectrometers: Analyze the chemical composition of Apophis.
- LIDAR: Measures the topography and shape of the asteroid.
- After its passage near Earth in 2029, OSIRIS-APEX will spend 18 months orbiting Apophis, collecting invaluable data.
The Importance of Studying Asteroids
Asteroids Apophis are time capsules of the beginning of the solar system. By studying them, scientists can:
- Learn about the formation of the planets.
- Discover potential resources for future space explorations.
- Develop strategies to protect Earth from potential impacts.
OSIRIS-APEX and Planetary Defense
One of the main contributions of the mission is the advance in planetary defense. By understanding Apophis' structure and behavior, NASA can improve asteroid trajectory forecasting models and develop deflection techniques.
This mission is a critical step in protecting our planet from future threats.
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- James Webb: Amazing Asteroid Discoveries
- Undetected asteroid: The silent threat that went unnoticed
- The Asteroid "God of Chaos" that will pass near the Earth in 2029
Conclusion: A Mission to Follow
A OSIRIS-APEX is more than a scientific undertaking—is a mission that connects exploration, discovery and planetary security. The world will see the greatest approach of Apophis to Earth in 2029, and the OSIRIS-APEX will be at the forefront of this historic event.
