The European Space Agency (ESA) is gearing up for a groundbreaking mission called Ramses, targeting a close encounter with the infamous asteroid Apophis. Apophis, which will pass remarkably close to Earth in 2029, offers a unique scientific opportunity. ESA’s Ramses spacecraft aims to rendezvous with Apophis during this flyby, enabling researchers to gather unprecedented data on the asteroid’s composition, structure, and trajectory.
Why Apophis Matters
Apophis will pass just 31,600 km from Earth—closer than many satellites. This rare event gives scientists a front-row seat to study how Earth’s gravity impacts asteroids. The Ramses mission will use advanced instruments to scan Apophis’s surface, analyze its mineralogy, and monitor any changes as the asteroid whizzes by our planet.
Mission Objectives
ESA plans for Ramses to unlock valuable insights into asteroid dynamics and planetary defense. The data collected could help refine our strategies for future asteroid threats. As space agencies collaborate on planetary protection, Ramses stands out as a key project to watch in 2029.
Sources:
ESA – Ramses Mission to Apophis
