Key insights
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Asteroid Apophis
Apophis is a massive asteroid, roughly 1,100 feet wide, that will pass within 19,000 miles of Earth in 2029. This close approach provides a unique opportunity for scientific study.
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Scientific Opportunity
Researchers aim to capture Apophis to study its composition and behavior. This could enhance our understanding of asteroid dynamics and inform future planetary defense strategies.
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Potential Risks and Benefits
While the chances of Apophis impacting Earth are extremely low, studying it up close could reveal critical data that might help prevent future asteroid collisions.
Takeaways
The 2029 flyby of asteroid Apophis presents a rare and valuable opportunity for scientific investigation. By capturing and studying the asteroid, scientists hope to gain insights that could protect Earth from potential asteroid threats in the future.