In 2029, a gigantic asteroid will pass dangerously close to Earth

As Earth wanders through space, there are many dangers lurking in the form of asteroids. Scientists are already keeping a close eye on the asteroid Apophis, which will pass very close to our planet in 2029. However, far from being a problem for the human species, it is quite the opposite. Passing by our atmosphere poses a danger to it.

The first thing that must be made clear is that Apophis is not going to manage to cross the atmosphere, so what is known as the ‘tidal effect’ will occur; that is, Earth’s gravity will not manage to capture the asteroid as if it were a hook, but it will exert a force capable of deforming and twisting it enough to alter its rotation.

What is the ‘tidal effect’ and how can it affect the asteroid Apophis?

It should be kept in mind that, obviously, this poses a problem for Apophis, but a golden opportunity for scientists. This phenomenon is not usually very common, so they have the chance to observe all the asteroid's secrets. The continuous shaking makes it possible to elucidate its structure and composition.

But there is another scenario that could occur before all of this happens. And that is that Apophis could collide with the geostationary satellites traveling through space. Studying its trajectory, it would be possible for the two to collide. However, experts explain that, although the possibility exists, it is quite remote.

For now, there are still two years left before Apophis comes as close as just 32,000 kilometers from Earth. Human beings should not be worried, since there is no possibility whatsoever that this asteroid will pose any danger. Any consequences its approach may have will always remain outside our atmosphere, something scientists intend to take advantage of for research.