The new research has scientists worried
Scientists warn the risk of the ‘God of Chaos’ asteroid colliding with Earth is higher than previously thought.
The asteroid named Apophis is set to pass by the planet in a few years’ time but research conducted by an astrophysicist at the University of Western Ontario in Canada has warned about the risk of a collision with Earth.
Paul Wiegert’s study was published in The Planetary Science Journal which has raised concerns among scientists, with Apophis already rated at a four on the Torino impact hazard scale – the highest-rated asteroid to date.
The asteroid which measures approximately 340 metres across, could be pushed onto a dangerous collision course with Earth by a small object as early as 2029.
The research shows that an object as small as 60 centimetres across could alter the trajectory of Apophis.
More worryingly, an object just 3.4 metres in size could strike with enough force to set the asteroid on a collision course with Earth.
The astrophysicists research highlights the need for constant monitoring of near-Earth objects, as even small space debris could dramatically alter the path of larger asteroids.
It is expected that the ‘God of Chaos’ will experience close encounters with our planet in 2029, 2036 and 2068.
On its first approach, it will come closer than some satellites at 31,000km from the Earth’s surface which is closer than some satellites.
Scientists previously believed Apophis’ impact risk was low, but Wiegert’s research has now cast doubt on this theory.
Nasa continues to monitor other near-Earth objects (NEOs).
Just recently the space agency issued several alerts for asteroids that were passing close to Earth during September.
