https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/asteroid-hit-earth-1.7451123

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5676213&forum_id=2#48627552)

Key Factors Behind the Slight Increase in Risk:

Close Flybys: In 2029, Apophis will pass extremely close to Earth, within 31,000 kilometers (19,000 miles), which is closer than many geostationary satellites. This proximity places it within gravitational zones that could alter its trajectory.

Collision with Smaller Objects: Wiegert's study evaluates the risk that a small asteroid or space debris might collide with Apophis and redirect it into one of Earth's keyholes (specific zones in space that could lead to a future collision with Earth). An impact with an object as small as 0.6 meters could redirect Apophis into a keyhole, increasing the likelihood of a future Earth impact.

Unseen Objects in Space: While we track many Near-Earth Objects (NEOs), the universe is vast, and smaller objects often evade detection. The collision of an unseen small object with Apophis could shift its orbit, albeit the probability of this is extremely low.

Low Odds but Not Zero: Wiegert calculates that the odds of an object large enough (around 3.4 meters) striking Apophis before 2029 are about 1 in 2 billion. Even the odds of a smaller object striking and causing an impact later are less than 1 in a million. Despite these odds being higher than previous estimates, they remain minuscule.

Potential Solutions and Mitigation Strategies:

Monitoring: Since Apophis is currently unobservable (due to its position relative to the Sun and Earth), increased efforts are needed to observe it when it becomes visible again in 2027. Enhanced monitoring will ensure that any subtle changes in its trajectory caused by small impacts or gravitational influences are detected.

Deflection Techniques: NASA and other space agencies are developing methods to deflect potentially hazardous asteroids. The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission, launched in 2021, is a key initiative designed to test whether kinetic impact can successfully alter an asteroid's trajectory. Applying a similar strategy to Apophis, should its orbit change in a way that threatens Earth, could serve as a preventative measure.

Gravitational Keyhole Avoidance: With precise measurements of Apophis's flyby in 2029, scientists can calculate whether it might pass through a keyhole, setting it on a collision course with Earth. If it is determined to be on such a path, a small nudge, even years in advance, could avoid an impact. This might involve either a kinetic impact or a gravitational tractor—a spacecraft that hovers near the asteroid and slowly alters its trajectory through gravitational pull.

International Collaboration: Planetary defense initiatives require global cooperation, as the consequences of an impact would be global. More nations could be encouraged to contribute to monitoring and developing new deflection technologies.

Public Awareness and Preparedness: Although the odds are low, ensuring that the public and governments understand the nature of these risks can lead to better preparedness. A dedicated international task force for asteroid detection and deflection can coordinate responses to any newly detected threats.

Conclusion:

While Apophis presents a minimal threat of impacting Earth in 2029 or later, ongoing research has indicated that the odds are slightly higher than once thought. However, with diligent monitoring and the development of asteroid deflection technology, any potential threat from Apophis or other hazardous objects can be mitigated. For now, there is no immediate cause for concern, but it remains a reminder of the importance of planetary defense research.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5676213&forum_id=2#48627867)

Karen explain?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5676213&forum_id=2#48627764)