Apophis Flyby: Science’s Cosmic Opportunity | Science News

In 2029, asteroid Apophis will make a breathtakingly close flyby of Earth — a cosmic event that’s turned from potential disaster into a global scientific triumph. Discovered in 2004 and once feared to strike, Apophis is now the focus of an unprecedented international space mission. NASA, ESA, and JAXA are coordinating a multi-spacecraft relay, with Japan’s DESTINY+ leading the charge weeks ahead, followed by ESA’s Ramses deploying a lander to probe its interior. NASA’s OSIRIS-APEX, which previously explored Bennu, will join later, spending 18 months studying Apophis and even testing surface interactions. The mission is part of the International Year of Asteroid Awareness and Planetary Defense — a historic moment to deepen our understanding of asteroids and sharpen our defenses against cosmic threats. Named after the Egyptian god of chaos, Apophis won’t bring destruction — only discovery. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ff9c8045e2990a5d