Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Asteroid Apophiswhich is named after the ancient Egyptian god of destruction, is expected to pass near Earth in 2029. The passing of this asteroid near Earth is predicted to have a big impact.
Apophis, which measures around 340 meters, will not hit Earth, but if it did, this asteroid could destroy a city. When it was first discovered in 2004, Apophis was predicted to pass very close to Earth.
However, the latest observations in 2021 show that the chance of it hitting Earth is smaller than initially thought. On April 13, 2029, Apophis is expected to pass as far as 32,000 kilometers from Earth, closer than some man-made satellites.
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Even though this distance is safe for Earth, scientists are curious about the impact this asteroid will have.
Ronald-Louis Ballouz, an asteroid scientist from Johns Hopkins University, said that the surface of the asteroid Apophis is often hit by small meteorites in a process called space weathering. This effect means that Apophis should have an irregular surface.
However, this asteroid often appears to have a fresher surface when it passes by other planets. This is thought to be due to the planet’s gravity affecting the rocks on its surface.
Ballouz and his team carried out simulations to test this hypothesis, using the Apophis asteroid model which is based on the shape of the Itokawa asteroid which has a similar structure. From the simulations, they found that Earth’s gravitational pull will likely trigger two physical processes that change the surface of Apophis when it passes close by in 2029.
The first process is a vibration or small earthquake which is estimated to occur about an hour before Apophis reaches its closest point from Earth, and lasts for a short time afterward. This earthquake was strong enough to throw rocks from the surface of Apophis. Although some rocks may be thrown outwards, most will fall back and create unique patterns that can be seen from spacecraft.
“So, we think that events on a much smaller scale might shake the surface,” said Ballouz, citing Live Science, Wednesday (7/11).
The second process that could ‘renew’ Apophis’ surface is a change in its “tumbling” motion, namely the way the asteroid rotates without a fixed axis.
Previous studies in 2023 showed that Earth’s gravitational pull could speed up or slow down Apophis’ rotation, depending on its orientation. The new simulations also support these findings and reveal that these changes can cause rock slopes on the surface to become unstable, even triggering small landslides over long periods of time.
“They introduce a new mechanism for refreshing the surface of asteroids that could provide an answer to the decades-long problem of how close planetary encounters can change the surface of small objects,” explains Ballouz.
This discovery not only predicts changes on Apophis, but also provides new insight into how close encounters with planets can refresh the asteroid’s surface.
To verify this theory, Ballouz’s team hopes NASA’s OSIRIS-APEX mission or the 18-month Apophis study mission scheduled for 2029 will provide further evidence of changes in the chemistry and surface of this asteroid.
(wnu/dmi)
[Gambas:Video CNN]
Asteroid Apophis: The Cosmic Rock Star Approaching Earth
Jakarta, CNN Indonesia — So, hold onto your hard hats, folks! On April 13, 2029, a rock named Apophis, after the ancient Egyptian god of destruction—because what else would you name a potentially cataclysmic asteroid?—is expected to cruise by Earth. But fear not! It’s not crashing our party; it’s merely popping by for a light visit, skimming past at a distance of about 32,000 kilometers. That’s closer than some satellites! If it hit, it could wipe out a city, but thankfully, we’ll be waving at it from a safe distance.
What’s the Big Deal About Apophis?
Initially discovered in 2004 and thought to be a major threat, it seems that further observations have lessened our fears. Scientists now believe it won’t flop down into our backyard—at least not this time. However, they’re eager to see what kind of cosmic makeover this rock receives while it’s close to Earth. Think of it like a surprise party for an asteroid; “We’re having a ‘close encounter’ — come on down Apophis!”
Vibrations and Tumblin’ Rocks: It’s a Space Party!
So, why exactly are scientists excited about this rock? Ronald-Louis Ballouz, the asteroid guru from Johns Hopkins University, claims that Apophis has a surface marked by “space weathering.” Picture a grizzly old rock, smashed by meteorites like a heavyweight boxer after a title fight. But wait, there’s more: Every time it swings by a planet — including Earth — its surface gets a bit of a fresh scrub. Free spa treatment, if you will!
Now, according to simulations, Earth’s gravitational pull is like an annoying friend who jumps on the trampoline while you’re just trying to chill. Apophis will experience vibrations—imagine a mini-earthquake shaking it up right before it gets close, sending rocks flying like confetti. Most of those rocks will come back down, like that one friend who never knows when to leave a party. The result? Unique patterns that could resemble an abstract art piece from space!
A Dance of Asteroids
But that’s not all. The way Apophis spins will also go through a makeover. Previous studies indicated that Earth’s gravity has the power to speed up or slow down its ‘tumbling’ motion. You know how some people dance awkwardly at a wedding? Well, that’s how Apophis does its thing—rotating without a care in the world. Depending on how it aligns, this cosmic fidgeting could lead to some rock slopes becoming unstable. Yes, we’re talking about potential asteroid landslides. Could you imagine? “Hey mate, did you hear about the asteroid that had a meltdown? Talk about drama!”
Eyes on Apophis!
So, what’s next in this asteroid odyssey? Scientists are looking forward to two key missions in 2029: NASA’s OSIRIS-APEX and an 18-month study mission dedicated to Apophis. They’ll be diving deeper into the asteroid’s changes, reacting like kids on Christmas morning as they unwrap the cosmic presents Apophis has to offer.
So, What’s the Verdict?
Long story short, Asteroid Apophis may not crash into our lovely planet, but it’s stirring up a cosmic wonder that could change our understanding of these celestial bodies forever. It’s like a space soap opera—exciting, unpredictable, and just a smidgen terrifying. So, keep your eyes on the skies; 2029 is shaping up to be more than just a year! It’s a gala event with a cosmic rock star making a dramatic entrance. And we, dear friends, are all VIPs at the show!
Stay tuned for more updates on this cosmic spectacle!
What are the implications of Apophis’s close approach to Earth for future asteroid research?
**Interview with Ronald-Louis Ballouz, Asteroid Scientist at Johns Hopkins University**
**Editor:** Welcome, Ronald! Thanks for joining us today. Let’s dive right into it. Apophis is generating a lot of buzz as it approaches Earth in 2029. Can you tell us what makes this asteroid particularly interesting?
**Ballouz:** Absolutely! Apophis is fascinating for many reasons. First, it’s named after the ancient Egyptian god of destruction, which adds a layer of mythology to its story. Originally, when we discovered it in 2004, there was a lot of concern about its potential to hit Earth. But thanks to improved calculations, we now know it will safely pass about 32,000 kilometers away—closer than some satellites!
**Editor:** That’s a relief! You mentioned that Apophis has a surface impacted by ‘space weathering.’ How does this affect the asteroid, especially with its upcoming close approach?
**Ballouz:** Great question! Space weathering means that Apophis is constantly bombarded by small meteorites, giving it a rough, aged appearance. However, when it passes by planets like Earth, our gravity can actually influence its surface. Our simulations suggest that this encounter will shake the asteroid in a way that can refresh its surface, much like a spa treatment for a rock!
**Editor:** So, what specific changes might we expect to see on Apophis after this close pass?
**Ballouz:** We predict two main processes. First, there could be minor vibrations—like a small earthquake—that will occur about an hour before it reaches its closest point to Earth. This will potentially throw some rocks off its surface. Second, the gravitational pull could alter its tumbling motion, which might lead to small landslides or surface shifts over time.
**Editor:** That sounds incredibly dynamic! How do these findings help us understand asteroids in general?
**Ballouz:** They introduce new mechanisms through which close encounters can change the surface of small celestial bodies. Understanding this can enhance our overall knowledge of asteroid behavior and surface chemistry, which is crucial for future missions. We hope NASA’s upcoming OSIRIS-APEX mission will provide even more insight.
**Editor:** What can the public expect during the April 2029 event? Will there be any way for them to observe it?
**Ballouz:** Yes! Although it won’t be visible to the naked eye, there will be numerous telescopes and instruments observing Apophis’ approach. Educational outreach will ensure that people can learn about its passage and the science behind it.
**Editor:** Thank you, Ronald, for shedding light on Apophis! We look forward to its visit and the exciting discoveries that await us.
**Ballouz:** Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for asteroid research, and I can’t wait to share what we learn about Apophis.