Asteroids passing near Earth might seem like something out of a sci-fi movie, but scientists are taking a close look at one that could potentially be dangerous. Known as the “God of Chaos,” this asteroid has been making headlines recently due to its close approach to Earth in 2029.
The asteroid, officially named 99942 Apophis, measures about 1,210 feet in width and is classified as an S-type asteroid, meaning it’s made up of silicate materials mixed with nickel and iron. Its name, Apophis, is inspired by the ancient Egyptian deity Apep, who represented chaos and was seen as an enemy of order and light, according to a report by Firstpost, citing sources.
On April 13, 2029, Apophis is expected to pass within just 32,000 kilometers of Earth’s surface. This close encounter has raised concerns because, when first discovered in 2004, it was rated level four on the Torino impact danger scale. This scale ranges from 0, indicating no risk, to 10, which signifies a certain collision with catastrophic consequences. Apophis was the first asteroid to receive this level of risk, though it was described as a close encounter that warranted attention.
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Every 7,500 years, Apophis makes a close pass by Earth, and when it was first observed, there was a 2.7% chance it could strike Earth. However, recent research led by astronomers Paul Wiegert and Benjamin Hyatt reveals that even a small object, just 0.6 meters wide, could alter Apophis’s path and potentially cause a collision with Earth.
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Despite these findings, the study indicates that the likelihood of such a collision is extremely low. The probability of a small asteroid changing Apophis’s course enough to hit Earth in 2029 is less than one in two billion.
While the odds are minimal, there is a possibility of an impact.