NASA Urged to Expedite Apophis Mission Plans

Scientists Call for Action on Apophis Mission

In a recent development, scientists are urging NASA to accelerate plans to repurpose two small satellites for a mission to the asteroid Apophis. This initiative aims to study the asteroid closely before its anticipated flyby of Earth. Apophis, known for its potential threat to our planet, has drawn significant attention from the scientific community. The mission would provide invaluable data on the asteroid’s composition and trajectory, enhancing our understanding and preparedness for future threats.

Illustration of the Janus mission

With Apophis set to pass near Earth, the sense of urgency has increased. The proposed smallsat mission could yield critical insights into asteroid behavior and characteristics. As scientists emphasize the need for prompt action, they highlight the importance of such missions in safeguarding our planet. NASA’s decision to move forward with this concept could pave the way for future asteroid exploration and planetary defense strategies.