'Once-in-a-millennium' asteroid flyby will be visible to much of the world in 2029
The 375-metre asteroid Apophis is projected to make a rare, close-approach flyby of Earth on April 13, 2029.
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The brief
On April 13, 2029, the asteroid Apophis will pass Earth at a distance closer than many telecommunications satellites. According to Space Daily, approximately two billion people across Africa, Europe, and parts of Asia may see the object move across the sky under clear, dark conditions.
Coverage from Space and Space Daily characterizes the event as a 'once-in-a-millennium' flyby. SpaceWatch.GLOBAL frames the arrival of Apophis as a moment where planetary defence is 'coming of age.' Future focus remains on the 2029 approach.
Coverage also references historical space rock explosions, such as an event in Siberia that destroyed 80 million trees without leaving a crater, as reported by The Times of India.
Synthesized by Archynetys from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: all claims supported by sources Updated just now.
Quick answers
When will Apophis pass Earth?
The flyby is scheduled for April 13, 2029.
How large is the asteroid?
Apophis is 375 metres in size.
Who will be able to see the asteroid?
Around two billion people across Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia may be able to watch it under clear dark skies.
Coverage (4)
- On 13 April 2029, a 375-metre asteroid called Apophis will sweep past Earth closer than many telecommunications satellites — and, under clear dark skies, around two billion people across Europe, Africa and parts of Asia may be able to watch it move across Space Daily · 8h ago
- #SpaceWatchGL Opinion: Apophis Is Coming. Planetary Defence Is Coming of Age. SpaceWatch.GLOBAL · 8h ago
- 80 million trees were wiped out in seconds in Siberia after a space rock explosion more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb, but scientists never found a crater The Times of India · 8h ago
- 'Once-in-a-millennium' asteroid flyby will be visible to much of the world in 2029 Space · 8h ago
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