Scientists Warn of Asteroid Approaching Earth in April 2029

The 99942 Apophis asteroid, which does not pose a threat to Earth, will pass within 32,000 kilometers of our planet in April 2029, making history. A study conducted by scientists at the Italian National Research Council found that the asteroid risks colliding with space debris in Earth's orbit. The scientists emphasized that such a collision would not alter the asteroid's main orbit or create a new hazard. However, even a minor impact could create a small crater on the asteroid's surface and release a massive dust cloud. The European Space Agency and NASA will closely monitor the asteroid with special missions. Scientists warn that an unexpected collision with space debris before the close approach could disrupt the asteroid's surface, making it difficult to determine the actual effects of Earth's gravitational pull on the asteroid.