In April 2029, the asteroid Apophis-once considered a important impact threat-will make an exceptionally close approach to Earth, passing closer than many geostationary satellites [[1]]. The European Space Agency is preparing for this rare event, deemed a “unique opportunity” for scientific study and planetary defense, with the launch of the Ramsès mission. This probe will analyze the asteroid’s response to Earth’s gravity,bolstering efforts to potentially deflect future hazardous objects and expand our understanding of the solar system’s origins.
A close approach by asteroid Apophis will offer a rare opportunity for scientific observation, with clear skies over much of Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia providing the best viewing conditions. The European Space Agency (ESA) anticipates the event will be visible to the naked eye.
ESA Calls Upcoming Flyby “A Unique Opportunity for Science”
The ESA has described the upcoming flyby as an “exceptional scientific opportunity,” stating it represents “a unique opportunity for science, planetary defense, and public awareness.” This event underscores the growing focus on near-Earth object monitoring and mitigation strategies.
To capitalize on this event, the ESA is launching the Ramsès mission. The mission will involve sending a probe to closely observe Apophis as it passes by Earth. The probe will study how the asteroid deforms and changes under the influence of Earth’s gravity.
Ramsès is scheduled for launch in April 2028, and will gradually approach Apophis, arriving in February 2029 to coincide with the close flyby.
Equipped with a suite of scientific instruments, Ramsès will analyze the asteroid both before and after its closest approach. The data collected will be crucial in determining the most effective methods for potentially deflecting a hazardous asteroid away from a collision course with Earth.
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Beyond planetary defense, the mission is expected to yield new insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system. Studying Apophis will provide scientists with valuable data to better understand these fundamental processes.
