A general representation of what an asteroid looks like.
NASA / JPL-Caltech
In a year of so much destruction and stress, it is not surprising that so many people are fixing on asteroids and whether they will strike Earth. That concern is moving into the future as we may be welcoming giant asteroid apophyses into our neighborhood.
Apophis is preparing for a series of visits in the coming decades, but it is one Some breaths led to the headlines At the moment 2068 is an expected approach. The asteroid is estimated to be over 1000 feet (300 meters) in size. The Eiffel Tower is like flying in space.
Researchers at the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy (IFA) have announced the discovery of a phenomenon called Yarkowski acceleration on the planet. The university said in a statement in late October that the acceleration was caused by “extremely weak force on the on-budget due to non-uniform thermal radiation.” This is essentially a slight nuisance due to the effects of sunlight, but it can change the course of asteroids over time.
Previously, scientists did not think there could be a 2068 impact scenario with Earth. IFA astronomer Dave Tha Tho Lane said new observations show that the planet is breaking a distance of about 1 by 20 meters from the eclipse each year, which is enough to keep the 206868 impact scene in play.
Apophysis first appeared in 2004 and scientists are improving what we know about the way more information is being collected. In In 2013, researchers determined that it would not overwhelm us in 2036.
The effect of 2029 was also previously denied. The Apophis will be approaching on Friday, April 13, 2029 and should be visible to the naked eye from Earth. That visit should help astronomers dial in the future balls of asteroids.
Meanwhile, scientists are working on ways to deal with potentially dangerous asteroids. NASA’s Dart MissionFor example, one would show a method that involves breaking into the moon of a planet to node a spacecraft. If it works, the concept could be used to push threatening asteroids on safety routes.
Uncertainty about Apophis is a bit unsettling, but you shouldn’t pencil the deadline on your calendar yet. The University of Hawaii said, “Astronomers will know better before 2068 if there is any possibility of influence.” Sit up straight. Scientists are keeping an eye on it.
