On September 14, 2024, NASA reported that space rock 2024 RN16 will made a near approach to earth. Measuring approximately 110 feet in diameter, the asteroid was one of those whose impact could have had significant consequences for the planet. Had it collided with Earth, it would have exploded about 29 kilometers above the surface, releasing energy equivalent to 16 megatons of TNT. Fortunately, the explosion would not have caused any direct surface damage.
ISRO on High Alert for Future Asteroid Threats
In response to potential future asteroid encounters, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is keeping a close watch on similar events. One of the most notable threats is Asteroid Apophis, which is expected to pass near Earth on April 13, 2029. Named after the Egyptian deity of Chaos, Apophis is larger than both India’s INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier and the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
ISRO Chairman Dr. S Somanath, as reported by NDTV, warned that large asteroid impacts pose a serious threat to humanity. “ISRO remains on high alert, and the Network for Space Objects Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) is closely monitoring Apophis. India will work with international partners to address this and future threats,” he stated.
Initial Discovery and Monitoring
Asteroid Apophis was first identified in 2004, and since then, its orbit, which brings it near Earth, has been closely monitored. The asteroid is scheduled for its next close encounter with our planet in 2029, with another anticipated approach in 2036. While there have been concerns about a potential impact, recent studies suggest that the 2029 flyby will most likely be a close pass rather than a collision.
The closeness of Apophis during its flyby can be better understood by comparing it to the orbit of India's geostationary satellites. These satellites are positioned at a higher altitude than the closest approach Apophis is expected to make. At around 32,000 kilometers from Earth, Apophis will come closer than any other asteroid of its size to our planet.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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