NASA has recently relaunched a fascinating mission to study the asteroid Apophis, which has been dubbed the “God of Chaos,” as it approaches Earth’s orbit. The spacecraft OSIRIS-REx, now renamed OSIRIS-APEX, was sent on this crucial journey to examine the anticipated close flyby of Apophis in 2029, which is said to be the closest in recorded history.
On April 13, 2029, Apophis is predicted to come within a mere 20,000 miles of Earth’s surface, a closer proximity than some manmade satellites. This close encounter with the asteroid will make it visible in the Eastern Hemisphere, captivating stargazers and scientists alike.
Apophis, measuring approximately 370 yards across, orbits the Earth about every 7,500 years, making it a captivating target for scientific investigation. Hence, the OSIRIS-APEX spacecraft has been designed to study and analyze the effects of Earth’s gravitational force on Apophis. Scientists aim to understand how Earth’s gravity influences the asteroid’s surface, its day length, and potential geological activity.
To gather vital information, the spacecraft will not land on the asteroid’s surface but will closely operate in its proximity for a duration of 18 months. During this time, OSIRIS-APEX will meticulously map the asteroid’s surface and thoroughly analyze the chemical composition of the rock. This data will help scientists gain deeper insights into the formation processes of planets and provide valuable knowledge about the early solar system.
While the mission’s primary focus is on studying Apophis, tracking of the asteroid will continue as it embarks on a series of six close passes with the sun. These passes will occur prior to its close flyby with Earth in 2029. This continued tracking will aid scientists in refining their understanding of the asteroid’s behavior and trajectory.
NASA’s decision to relaunch this mission signifies the importance of unraveling the mysteries surrounding Apophis. The scientific community eagerly awaits the wealth of knowledge and discoveries that are expected to emerge from this extraordinary mission. Encapsulating the essence of exploration, the heartland of our universe continues to unveil its secrets, allowing humanity to catch a glimpse into the enigmatic beginnings of our solar system. Stay tuned for updates as OSIRIS-APEX advances on its exciting celestial journey.
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