China’s Upcoming Mission to Apophis
Chinese scientists are advocating for a revolutionary cubesat swarm mission targeting the notorious asteroid Apophis. This ambitious project aims to conduct multiple flybys of the asteroid as it makes its close approach to Earth in 2029. The mission will utilize a fleet of small satellites, known as cubesats, to gather crucial data and insights about this rocky body, which has captured global attention due to its potential threat to our planet.
By deploying a swarm of cubesats, scientists hope to enhance our understanding of Apophis’s structure and composition. This innovative approach could pave the way for future planetary defense strategies, ensuring that we are better prepared for any potential impacts. The focus on Apophis highlights the growing importance of asteroid research in the context of planetary defense and space exploration.
