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#1 2024-03-08 07:17:05
- tahanson43206
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Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
NewMars has an opportunity to provide leadership to mount an expedition of one or more space probes to match orbits with Apophis when it passes Earth in 2029. We have several interesting proposals already in the archive, and more are likely.
A new Index level Forum dedicated to this mission would allow members to contribute to development of ideas for proposals for funding by any Nation, Corporation or Organization of sufficient means to undertake a mission of this complexity.
Title: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Radio in the title is a stand in for the words "Radio Beacon". The title only allows a certain number of characters.
What I have in mind is the space equivalent of the bells that have been installed in sea buoys to alert sea farers during heavy fog.
From Google:
Apophis - NASA Science
science.nasa.gov › solar-system › asteroids › apophis
Overview Asteroid 99942 Apophis is a near-Earth object (NEO) estimated to be about 1100 feet (335 meters) across. When it was discovered in 2004, Apophis ...99942 Apophis - Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org › wiki › 99942_Apophis
99942 Apophis (provisional designation 2004 MN4) is a near-Earth asteroid and a potentially hazardous object with a diameter of 370 metres (1,210 feet) that ...Aten asteroid · Torino scale · Gravitational keyhole · Potentially hazardous object
Asteroid Apophis will swing past Earth in 2029 — could a space rock ...
www.space.com › asteroid-apophis-earth-flyby-2029-space-rock-collision3 days ago · The asteroid Apophis, infamous because it's headed to brush past Earth in 2029, most likely isn't something to worry about, a new study finds.
Asteroid Apophis: Will It Hit Earth? Your… - The Planetary Society
www.planetary.org › ArticlesOn 13 April 2029 Apophis will pass as close as 30,600 kilometers (19,000 miles) above the Earth. If you're superstitious, that's on a Friday the 13th.
Earth's gravity will alter Apophis' orbit during 2029 flyby - ESAwww.esa.int › ESA_Multimedia › Images › 2021/03 › Earth_s_gravity_wil...
Asteroid Apophis will make an extremely close approach of Earth on Friday, 13 April 2029. At ten times closer than the Moon, Apophis will be closer than ...
Astronomers Confirm Giant Asteroid 'Apophis' Will Not Hit Earthwww.sciencealert.com › astronomers-confirm-giant-asteroid-apophis-will-n...
2 days ago · A few years ago, astronomers ruled out the chance of a potentially hazardous asteroid named Apophis redirecting and hitting Earth as it whizzesApophis impact ruled out for the first time - ESA
www.esa.int › Space_Safety › Planetary_Defence › Apophis_impact_ruled...New observations of asteroid Apophis – thought to pose a slight risk of impacting Earth in 2068 – rule out any chance of impact for at least a century.
Encounter circumstances of asteroid 99942 Apophis with the ... - arXiv
arxiv.org › astro-ph7 days ago · Asteroid 99942 Apophis will pass near the Earth in April 2029. Expected to miss our planet by a safe margin, that could change if Apophis' path ...
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#2 2024-03-08 07:17:45
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
This post is reserved for an index to posts NewMars members may contribute over time.
Note: https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/ <<Resource suggested by Gemini to help to plan an intercept with Apophis
Index:
http://newmars.com/forums/viewtopic.php … 90#p231990
Report on European proposal to visit Apophis in 2029 - ahead of funding
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#3 2024-03-08 07:19:39
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Possible topics for such an Index level Forum might include:
Navigation to the asteroid in 2029
Science instruments to characterize Apophis
Harvesting experiments: Mechanical, Magnetic, Electrostatic, other?
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#4 2024-03-08 10:29:53
- GW Johnson
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Apophis was a really big topic discussed at the asteroid defense conference in Granada, Spain, back in 2009 (which I attended and gave a poster paper). At that time they were really worried about the 2029 close approach, and maybe 2036. It buzzes by "close" roughly every 7 years, and it is big enough to do catastrophic damage if it were to strike.
From what I read, the 2029 pass will be close enough to modify its orbit significantly. How much is anyone's bet, but that means predictions past 2029 are all BS until after that pass has done whatever it is going to do to the orbit.
To the best of my knowledge, the thing is a big rubble pile, which would pretty much fly apart if subjected to impactors or a nuke (which is what "Didymoon" almost did). Done too close, that converts a bullet strike to a shotgun blast, doing even more damage, and more widespread.
The thing is a serious threat, and as yet there are no supportable deflection concepts that are anywhere near ready to use, or any agreement for exactly how to deal with a predicted impact, even with some years' warning. The defense conference meets every 2 years, but has made little progress other than detections of more asteroids.
GW
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"There is nothing as expensive as a dead crew, especially one dead from a bad management decision"
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#5 2024-03-08 13:25:45
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
For GW Johnson!
Thanks for your comments on Apophis and the 2009 conference. If your 2009 paper is still available, I would like to join with Void in asking if it might be published here on NewMars. We can use the usual method.
I ** would ** like to see if we (NewMars) can take advantage of any serious interest there may be in landing a lot of probes on the asteroid as it flies by.
2029 is far enough away so that missions can be promoted, funded and prepared. The velocity of the asteroid will be high but not out of reach for modern human rocket systems.
At the very least, a probe to study the asteroid permanently (by flying with it) would make sense, and the great variety of ideas that will be generated to harvest the material in the asteroid will surely lead to interesting posts and perhaps an article or two.
Since we have a ** real ** honest to goodness rocket designer in the membership, this is an opportunity for us to publish preliminary studies of intercept methods.
*** Update: GW Johnson wrote that the paper from 2009 is not available, but he provided a recollection which I will link and post tomorrow, if all goes to plan.
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#6 2024-03-09 07:37:29
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
I asked ChatGPT4 to provide a starting summary of information it has about Apophis, as of it's most recent training date:
Asteroid 99942 Apophis: An Overview
Asteroid 99942 Apophis has captivated the interest of astronomers, scientists, and the space-faring community due to its notable close approaches to Earth. This asteroid presents a unique opportunity for study and exploration. Here's what we know:
Discovery
- Apophis was discovered on June 19, 2004, by astronomers at the Kitt Peak National Observatory.
- Its name is derived from the ancient Egyptian deity symbolizing chaos, fitting for an object that once posed a significant concern for potential Earth impact.Orbit and Size
- Apophis's orbit brings it close to Earth approximately every seven years.
- It is classified as an Aten-type near-Earth asteroid.
- The asteroid has an estimated length of about 370 meters (roughly 1,210 feet), making it one of the larger objects that come close to Earth.2029 Close Approach
- On April 13, 2029, Apophis is predicted to pass within approximately 31,000 kilometers (19,000 miles) of Earth's surface.
- This distance is closer than some geostationary satellites, offering an unprecedented opportunity for study.Scientific Interest
- Apophis's close approach will allow scientists to study its composition, structure, and possibly its interior by radar and telescopic observations.
- Understanding its characteristics can provide insights into the origins of our solar system and contribute to the study of asteroids as potential resources for mining or threats for planetary defense.Planetary Defense
- Initially, there were concerns about the potential for Apophis to impact Earth in the future. However, further observations and calculations have significantly reduced the perceived risk.
- The 2029 flyby will still serve as a valuable exercise for planetary defense strategies and technologies, including how humanity might deflect or manipulate the orbit of potentially hazardous asteroids.Current Missions
- As of my last update, NASA had plans for a probe to intercept and study Apophis. The opportunity for additional missions from other space-faring nations exists, given the asteroid's accessibility and interest.Call to Action for Space-Faring Nations
The 2029 close approach of Apophis presents a not-to-be-missed opportunity for a coordinated international effort to study this near-Earth object in detail. The deployment of multiple missions to match orbit with Apophis could significantly advance our understanding of asteroids, enhance our capabilities in space exploration, and bolster our planetary defense mechanisms.
This event could serve as a catalyst for international collaboration in space exploration and security, encouraging the sharing of knowledge, resources, and technology among all space-faring nations.
For the latest information on Apophis and any planned missions, staying tuned to official space agency announcements and scientific publications is recommended.
This is a good time to point out GW Johnson's post above. In that post, Dr. Johnson reminds us that the future path of Apophis will be determined by the nature of it's pass by Earth. The orbit of Apophis will most certainly be altered, just as the space probes that NASA and other agencies use gravity assist to accelerate probes for distant destinations. While the nature of the acceleration of Apophis would have upper and lower bounds that can be estimated, the exact nature of the orbit change is (currently) unpredictable. Thus, the exact path the asteroid will take with respect to Earth in 2036 will only be known after the asteroid is well past Earth in 2029.
2029 is a golden opportunity for a massive effort to match orbits with Apophis, by as many probes as the space faring nations can plan, fund and deliver.
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#7 2024-03-09 07:48:32
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Because ChatGPT4 does not have reliable access to the current Internet, we will ask Gemini for assistance. Here is the request CH4 composed for transmission to Gemini:
Dear Gemini,
We are currently undertaking a project focused on the asteroid Apophis and its close approach to Earth in 2029. Our goal is to gather detailed data to aid in planning space craft navigation for an intercept mission. To this end, we require specific information about Apophis's trajectory as it nears Earth. Specifically, we are interested in:
The exact time and date of Apophis's closest approach to Earth in 2029.
The ground track of Apophis over the Earth during its approach and departure, with a focus on identifying the locations where observations and potential intercept missions would be most feasible.
The altitude of Apophis at its closest approach, including the precise location above Earth where this minimum altitude occurs, and the time at which it occurs.
The velocity and direction of Apophis during its closest approach to assist in planning the trajectory of intercepting spacecraft.
This information is crucial for planning effective observation and potential engagement strategies with Apophis, given its size, velocity, and proximity to Earth at that time. Any additional insights into Apophis's composition, rotation, and previous observations would also be highly valuable to our analysis.Thank you for your assistance in gathering this data. Your ability to access real-time Internet resources is invaluable to our project, and we look forward to your response.
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#8 2024-03-09 07:55:30
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
I passed the reply from Gemini back to CH4, and it prepared the result below:]
Comprehensive Update on Asteroid Apophis's 2029 Close Approach
Our exploration into the 2029 close approach of Asteroid 99942 Apophis has yielded significant insights, thanks to the capable assistance of Gemini. Below is a detailed summary of the critical data points relevant to our study and planning for potential intercept missions:
Exact Time and Date of Closest Approach:
- Date: April 13, 2029
- Further details can be found on NASA Science: Apophis.Ground Track and Observation Feasibility:
- While specific ground track data requires more advanced visualization tools, resources like NASA's CNEOS offer valuable tools for this purpose.
- Apophis will be notably close to Earth, visible from the Eastern Hemisphere without telescopes, making these regions ideal for observations.Altitude and Location of Closest Approach:
- Minimum Altitude: Expected to be around 19,794 miles (31,860 kilometers) from Earth's surface.
- Specific location details for the closest approach point are complex, yet the Eastern Hemisphere is highlighted for its visibility advantage.Velocity and Direction during Closest Approach:
- While exact velocity details are intricate, the close nature of the flyby suggests a high velocity. Precise calculations would benefit from consulting direct space agency data.Additional Insights:
- Composition: Apophis is an S-type asteroid, with potential composition of iron and silicate minerals.
- Rotation: It completes one rotation roughly every 30 hours.
- Previous Observations: Extensive data from observations since its discovery in 2004 have refined its trajectory predictions.Important Note:
It's crucial to consult official resources like NASA's NEO website for the most current and accurate information on Apophis's trajectory and characteristics.My Comments:
The detailed investigation into Apophis's 2029 flyby presents a unique opportunity for global space agencies to collaborate on intercept missions and observations. This event not only allows for the advancement of our understanding of near-Earth objects but also serves as a critical exercise in planetary defense strategies. The engagement of multiple international missions could significantly enhance our preparedness for future celestial encounters.Feel free to delve into the provided links for more in-depth information, and stay tuned for further updates as we continue to monitor Apophis's approach.
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#9 2024-03-09 08:00:03
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
I'd like to offer our members who have the time and the interest to follow one or more of the links suggested above, and report back with findings. I'm looking for the information a space craft navigator will need to plan an intercept. The velocity and direction of the asteroid is it crosses GEO altitude will be most helpful, and the ground track of the object would also be interesting in order to plan observations from the ground.
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#10 2024-03-09 08:08:22
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Here is ChatGPT4's assessment of the optimum choice for a deep dive:
Selecting the Optimal Resource for Apophis Intercept Mission Planning
In our pursuit of gathering precise data for the planning of an intercept mission to Asteroid Apophis, the range of resources provided by Gemini offers invaluable insights. Among these, NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) stands out as the premier choice for this endeavor. Here's why CNEOS is particularly suited for our needs:
Note: https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/ <<Resource suggested by Gemini to help to plan an intercept with Apophis
Comprehensive Orbital Data and Characteristics:
- CNEOS provides detailed orbital information, physical characteristics, and predictive modeling tools. This suite of data is essential for accurately mapping out the trajectory and approach for a mission to Apophis.Real-time and Up-to-date Information:
- The dynamic nature of space and celestial objects necessitates the most current data for mission planning. CNEOS's commitment to real-time data ensures that mission strategies are based on the latest observations and calculations.Precision and Reliability:
- For a mission as complex and sensitive as intercepting a near-Earth asteroid, precision in planning and execution cannot be overstated. CNEOS's high level of accuracy in orbital data and predictions provides a solid foundation for mission design, minimizing uncertainties and risks associated with space navigation.Why CNEOS is Indispensable:
- The tools and data offered by CNEOS are not just comprehensive but tailored for the scientific community engaged in near-Earth object studies. Utilizing these resources allows for a scientifically rigorous approach to planning an intercept mission, ensuring that all variables are considered and the mission's success is maximized.Conclusion:
As we consider the monumental task of planning and executing a mission to rendezvous with Asteroid Apophis, leveraging the authoritative and specialized resources of NASA's CNEOS is imperative. The center's unparalleled access to data, combined with its analytical tools, positions us to make informed decisions and to craft a mission strategy that is both feasible and grounded in scientific excellence.In embarking on this journey, our reliance on CNEOS underscores the critical role of accurate, real-time data in the success of space missions, particularly those that venture to interact with celestial bodies like Apophis. We encourage the space-faring community to engage with CNEOS's resources as we move closer to 2029, a year that promises not only a close encounter with Apophis but an unprecedented opportunity for exploration and discovery.
If anyone in our membership has the time and interest to investigate, please report your findings to this topic.
If we have a reader who is not a member and would like to participate in this project, please see Recruiting topic for procedure.
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#11 2024-03-10 07:53:04
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Here is a resource for study of the class of asteroids of which Apophis is reported to be a part...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/ea … -chondrite
It appears that some iron may be present, but in my first glance I did not find any information about the magnetic susceptibility of the iron.
A magnetic tool to gather asteroid material would only work if the iron in the asteroid is susceptible to magnetic fields.
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#12 2024-03-10 08:12:04
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
This is a follow up to attempt to establish the magnetic susceptibility of the material in Apophis.
Understanding Apophis's Magnetic Susceptibility and Composition
The magnetic susceptibility of a material defines its reaction to a magnetic field. Iron, which may be present in Asteroid Apophis, is usually strongly attracted to magnetic fields. However, its susceptibility can change when bound to other elements, like silicon in silicates, possibly reducing its response to magnetic fields. For a deeper dive into magnetic susceptibility, check out this comprehensive Wikipedia article.
Asteroid Apophis is thought to contain chondrites, indicating a composition that might include silicate-bound iron. This composition has implications for its magnetic properties and how it might interact with a magnetic field in a potential asteroid mining or deflection scenario.
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#13 2024-03-10 08:27:49
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
I asked Gemini for suggestions of additional resources to attempt to ascertain the potential of using a magnetic field to collect material from Apophis. The outlook appears to be poor, because the iron atoms in Apophis appear to be chemically bound in such a way as to reduce the magnetic susceptibility of the iron to zero or negligible.
Hello again! Today I am hoping you can help me to find detailed information about the magnetic susceptibility of material likely to be present in an asteroid which contains chondrites. I have examined a Wikipedia article on Magnetic Susceptibility, but the examples do not include analysis of chondrites.
You're right, the general Wikipedia article on magnetic susceptibility might not delve specifically into chondrites. However, there are resources available that can help you with this! Here are some options:
1. Research Papers:
Search academic databases: Utilize online databases like Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, or Web of Science to search for research papers focused on the magnetic susceptibility of chondrites. Keywords like "magnetic susceptibility," "chondrites," "meteorite classification" can be helpful in your search. Here are some examples of relevant papers you might find:
"Enstatite chondrite density, magnetic susceptibility, and porosity" (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/ar … X-main.pdf)
"Magnetic classification of stony meteorites: the case of Saharan meteorites" (https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3 … b8293/meta)
"Arrival and magnetization of carbonaceous chondrites in the asteroid belt before 4562 million years ago" (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7716897/)2. Meteorite Classification Resources:
The Meteoritical Society: This organization maintains a database of meteorites with various classifications, including information on their magnetic susceptibility. You can search their database using keywords like "chondrite" and "magnetic susceptibility" (https://meteoritical.org/).
3. Specific Chondrite Types:
Focus your research on specific chondrite types: Different chondrite types (ordinary, carbonaceous, enstatite) can have varying magnetic properties. Researching specific types you're interested in might provide more targeted data on their magnetic susceptibility.
Additional Tips:Look for papers that analyze the magnetic susceptibility of chondrites from similar locations or sources as your asteroid might be.
Consider the composition of chondrites. Since they contain varying amounts of iron-nickel metal, their magnetic susceptibility can differ. Research the typical composition of chondrites to understand the potential range of susceptibility values.By exploring these resources, you should be able to find detailed information about the magnetic susceptibility of materials likely to be present in a chondrite-containing asteroid. Remember, scientific research is an ongoing process, and new data is constantly being published. Keep these resources in mind for future reference as well.
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#14 2024-03-20 07:13:48
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
The idea of injecting water (or other material) into an asteroid (or comet) to collect material by freezing it seems (to me at least) applicable to Apophis, if it is indeed a rubble pile.
I asked ChatGPT4 to evaluate the suggestion from our Alaskan correspondent:
Alaska Taffy Pull: Innovative Asteroid Material Collection Technique
The concept of harvesting material from rubble pile asteroids presents unique challenges and opportunities. Drawing inspiration from a construction technique used on Earth, an innovative idea has emerged from Alaska, proposing the use of a water injection system to collect asteroid materials. This system, adapted for space, uses water as a cohesive agent, exploiting the low temperatures in space to freeze water and bind asteroid materials together. Below is a summary of our detailed discussion on this topic.
Water Injection System Design
- The system employs heating coils within an injection pipe to ensure water remains liquid as it travels through the pipe, despite the cold vacuum of space.
- Exit ports along the pipe allow even distribution of water into the asteroid material, increasing the efficiency of material collection.Water Heating and Management
- An onboard water heating mechanism is crucial for thawing water stored during transit. Precise temperature control is necessary to maintain the water in a liquid state for injection.
- The concept emphasizes energy efficiency and the need for a robust system that can heat and inject water without excessive energy consumption.Thermal Management for Return Journey
- Reflective materials, such as aluminum foil, are proposed to shield the collected material and ice from solar radiation during the return journey to Earth.
- The use of solar sails for propulsion offers a sustainable method to return the harvested material, with traditional propulsion systems as a backup for precise maneuvering.Automation and Robotics
- Automation and robotic systems are essential for the operation, given the vast distances and communication delays involved in space missions.
- Robots could assist in the precise deployment and management of the injection system, ensuring the success of the material collection process.This idea, dubbed the "Alaska Taffy Pull," represents a blend of terrestrial engineering techniques adapted for the unique challenges of space exploration. It offers a potential method for efficiently collecting material from asteroids, leveraging the natural environment of space to facilitate the process. The concept underscores the importance of innovative approaches in advancing our capabilities for asteroid mining and resource utilization beyond Earth.
Feel free to discuss further or share your thoughts on this innovative concept!
Here is a link to the image created by DALL-E to show this concept: https://imgur.com/a/l5WLFHA
And here is the image: 
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#15 2024-03-20 19:50:00
- SpaceNut
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
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#16 2024-03-21 06:17:15
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
For SpaceNut re #15
Tbanks for finding and posting the link to that very nice animation of the Apophis flight path.
While the key information it provides is the path through the near-Earth vicinity in 2029, it is also helpful to be able to see how close the asteroid is to the orbit of Earth the rest of the time.
It seems to me this is useful for planning delivery of collections of asteroid material harvested from Apophis. Those collections can be fitted with solar sails and slowly brought into alignment with Earth orbit, under control of automated navigation systems.
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#17 2024-03-22 09:42:23
- GW Johnson
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
See the orbit of Apophis change at the close encounters? That's a 3-body computer code in action. The problem is in getting good simulations farther into the future, after so many interactions. That is why the out-year threat of Apophis is not known with certainty.
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#18 2024-04-25 21:22:18
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Here's an update 0n planning for Apophis in 2029...
https://www.yahoo.com/news/scientists-p … 00789.html
How Scientists Are Preparing for Apophis's Unnervingly Close Brush With Earth
Passant Rabie
Thu, April 25, 2024 at 9:30 AM EDT·5 min read
31This is radar image of a near-Earth asteroid similar to Apophis. We actually know very little about what Apophis looks like, but its pending flyby in 2029 will provide scientists with an unprecedented look. - Image: NASA/JPL-CalTech
In about five years’ time, a potentially hazardous asteroid will swing by Earth at an eerily close distance of less than 20,000 miles (32,000 kilometers). During this rare encounter, Apophis will be ten times closer to Earth than the Moon and scientists want to take full advantage of its visit.
Apophis is a on trajectory towards an Earth flyby on April 13, 2029. When it was first discovered in 2004, the 1,100-foot-wide (335 meters) near-Earth object was designated as a hazardous asteroid that could impact our planet. Later observations, however, reassured scientists that there’s no need to panic just yet, and that the asteroid has no chance of crashing into Earth for at least another century.
That’s very good news given the size of this object and the serious damage it would inflict should it some day strike our planet. Hopefully that’ll never happen, but objects of this size tend to hit Earth about once every 80,000 years, unleashing catastrophic damage and global-scale impact winters.
Images of Apophis captured by radio antennas at the Deep Space Network’s Goldstone complex in California and the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia when the asteroid was 10.6 million miles (17 million kilometers) away. - Image: NASA/JPL-Caltech and NSF/AUI/GBO
Images of Apophis captured by radio antennas at the Deep Space Network’s Goldstone complex in California and the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia when the asteroid was 10.6 million miles (17 million kilometers) away. - Image: NASA/JPL-Caltech and NSF/AUI/GBODuring its upcoming flyby, scientists want to explore the asteroid to determine whether Earth’s gravitational field will have an impact on Apophis’ orientation, composition, and spin. It could result in asteroid quakes, for example, causing a shift in how its materials are distributed within, or alter the appearance of its surface. Scientists hope to chronicle these potential changes by comparing observations of the asteroid before and after its 2029 encounter with Earth. Physical changes to the asteroid could alter its orbital path, so it’s clearly something scientists will want to document.
Private space companies like Blue Origin and startup Exploration Labs, or ExLabs, have come up with proposals for missions to rendezvous with Apophis before its anticipated flyby, SpaceNews reported. During a recent workshop at a European Space Agency center in The Netherlands, the companies pitched their mission concepts in an effort to learn more about the asteroid and other space rocks that could pose a potential risk to Earth.
Blue Origin’s proposal included using itsBlue Ring orbital platform to deliver payloads to Apophis. Blue Ring, which is set to make its debut by the end of 2024, is designed to provide end-to-end services for both commercial and government customers, and can host payloads that weigh up to 6,600 pounds (3,000 kilograms).
Artist’s conception of Blue Origin’s upcoming Blue Ring orbital transfer vehicle. - Image: Blue Origin
The orbital platform can be used to deliver instruments or deployable spacecraft to Apophis for low-cost, low-risk missions, Steve Squyres, chief scientist at Blue Origin, is quoted in SpaceNews as saying.
For its proposal, ExLabs presented an idea that had previously been studied by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Distributed Radar Observations of Interior Distributions, or DROID, would send a spacecraft to Apophis that deploys two cubesats to perform a “CAT scan” of the asteroid’s interior, according to SpaceNews. The mission would launch in May 2028 and arrive at Apophis in February 2029.
Earlier in February, NASA hosted a workshop to seek ideas from the private sector “on innovative approaches to conduct missions during the Earth flyby of the asteroid Apophis in 2029.”
NASA’s OSIRIS-APEX spacecraft, formerly known as OSIRIS-REx, is already on its way to study Apophis and observe changes the asteroid may endure from its close encounter with Earth. After dropping off samples from the Bennu asteroid in the Utah desert, the spacecraft was repurposed for a new errand, having to carry out close passes to the Sun, as well as three Earth gravity assists, to reach Apophis in five years.
The space agency also has a spare pair of spacecraft that can be repurposed to study the Apophis asteroid. The Janus mission was supposed to launch in August 2022, hitching a ride to space with the Psyche spacecraft to explore a metal-rich asteroid. An unfortunate software glitch delayed Psyche’s launch two months before its liftoff, thereby affecting its ride-along missions.
Psyche later launched in October 2023, but its new launch window could not deliver Janus’ twin probes to the mission’s original targets. As a result, the spacecraft were taken off the launch manifest and stowed away at Lockheed Martin.
The pair of spacecraft were originally meant to visit asteroids 1996 FG3 and 1991 VH, but could be repurposed to study Apophis instead. Although there are some differences between Apophis and the original targets of the Janus mission, the twin probes can still carry out a flyby and run similar observations of Earth’s incoming visitor.
And this is just the start. Other missions could be announced in the coming months and years given the scientific importance and rarity of such a close encounter.
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#19 2025-06-01 06:35:56
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
Here is a report on planning for a European mission to Apophis in 2029:
https://www.yahoo.com/news/europe-wants … 00352.html
Space
Europe wants to land a tiny spacecraft on the infamous asteroid Apophis in 2029
Andrew JonesFri, May 30, 2025 at 4:00 PM EDT
Artist's impression of the European Space Agency's Ramses (Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety) mission in action. . | Credit: ESA-Science OfficeOnce feared as a threat to Earth, the asteroid Apophis is now considered to pose a rare exploration opportunity — if space agencies can act in time.
The 1,100-foot-wide (340 meters) Apophis, also known as asteroid 99942, is set to make a very close, but safe, flyby of Earth on April 13, 2029. The European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing its Ramses (Rapid Apophis Mission for Space Safety) mission for a 2028 launch in order to accompany the rocky body during its close approach.
Ramses aims to conduct a before-and-after-flyby analysis of the asteroid and features such as its surface characteristics, composition, orbit and more. Apophis' gravitational interaction with Earth is expected to trigger tidal forces in the asteroid, potentially altering its surface and interior. Understanding how Apophis is affected will bring valuable insights for international planetary defense efforts.
And now, ESA plans to add a second cubesat to the mission, to attempt a landing on Apophis. It has selected the Spanish company Emxys to lead the development of what is a demanding task.
"Landing on an asteroid is very challenging," Paolo Martino, Ramses project manager, said in an ESA statement. "The irregular shape and surface properties make it difficult to identify a stable landing site, while the very weak gravity makes it hard to stay on the surface without bouncing off and drifting away."
The main Ramses spacecraft will be a modified version of ESA's Hera probe, which is on its way to the binary asteroid system Didymos to assess the effects of NASA's 2022 DART (Double Asteroid Redirect Test) impact.
AdvertisementRamses' status is not secure, however, despite apparent momentum behind the mission, as it requires ESA member states to officially commit to financially backing the mission at the agency's Ministerial Council meeting in November this year.
Another agency looking at launching a dedicated mission to track and study Apophis is NASA. Scientists at the Apophis T-4 Years Workshop held in Tokyo in April urged NASA to repurpose the shelved Janus spacecraft to make a pre-Earth-encounter investigation of Apophis.
The agency, however, currently lacks the budget to carry out such a mission, according to reports.
A May 19 SpaceNews story reported that Nicky Fox, NASA associate administrator for science, said that the agency is looking into possibilities for using Janus for an Apophis mission, but stated that these depend on budgets for fiscal year 2026 and beyond. The context for this is not favorable, however. The Trump administration's 2026 budget request, issued earlier this month, calls for very deep cuts to the NASA budget, hitting science particularly hard.
A study into collaborating with non-traditional partners for the mission, meanwhile, was found to be not viable, also due to funding issues, SpaceNews reported.
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#20 2026-04-19 07:42:17
- tahanson43206
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Re: Prototype Index Forum Apophis 2029 Mission: Characterize Harvest Radio
This post is about a recent update on planning for intercept of Apophis when it passes near to Earth in 2029.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/apo … 05035.html
Both NASA and ESA have plans in work to land on or at least hover near the asteroid.
What is Apophis? Giant asteroid is 3 years from Earth approach
Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY
Thu, April 16, 2026 at 9:41 AM EDT
6 min read
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Add Yahoo on GoogleAs of April 13, an infamous giant asteroid known as Apophis is now three years away from becoming the first space rock of its size to come near Earth in recorded human history.
Roughly the size of five NFL football fields, Apophis made a name for itself more than two decades ago when its discovery accompanied the terrifying revelation that it had a non-zero chance of hitting Earth in 2029. While that risk of impact has been confidently ruled out, the date of its future rendezvous with our planet on Friday the 13th is likely no salve to those who are superstitious.
But for the less-superstitious and more scientific-minded folks, Apophis' impending approach toward our planet represents an unprecedented opportunity to study one of the most potentially hazardous asteroids ever detected. In 2029, its orbit will bring Apophis closer than the distance of many telecommunications satellites in geosynchronous orbit, which matches Earth's 24-hour rotation.
A collision with Earth would have been devastating. A harmless encounter that close, on the other hand, could lead to a cosmic breakthrough in humanity's understanding of near-Earth asteroids.
The Artemis II mission launches April 1 from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The four-person crew aboard the Orion spacecraft hitched a ride to orbit atop NASA's giant 322-foot Space Launch System rocket. Launching atop 8.8 million pounds of thrust, the SLS is the most powerful rocket NASA ever launched, about 17% more powerful than the iconic Saturn V rocket used during the Apollo era.
Artemis II Commander Reid Wiseman of NASA took this stunning photograph of Earth from the Orion spacecraft's window on April 2. The image is reminiscent of the iconic "blue marble" image captured during the Apollo 17 mission in 1972.
The Artemis II crew captured this breathtaking photo of our galaxy, the Milky Way. Spanning more than 100,000 light-years, Earth is located along one of the galaxy’s spiral arms, about halfway from the center.
10 days, 10 photos. Here are the most stunning images from Artemis II
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The Artemis II mission launches April 1 from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The four-person crew aboard the Orion spacecraft hitched a ride to orbit atop NASA's giant 322-foot Space Launch System rocket. Launching atop 8.8 million pounds of thrust, the SLS is the most powerful rocket NASA ever launched, about 17% more powerful than the iconic Saturn V rocket used during the Apollo era.Now that Apophis is less than three years away from passing near Earth, here's everything to know about the asteroid.
What is the Apophis asteroid?
The NASA spacecraft OSIRIS-APEX hovers over the surface of the near-Earth asteroid Apophis, using its thrusters to disturb the asteroid's surface to reveal what lies beneath, as shown in an undated NASA artist's video rendering, in this screengrab obtained from a handout video.
The NASA spacecraft OSIRIS-APEX hovers over the surface of the near-Earth asteroid Apophis, using its thrusters to disturb the asteroid's surface to reveal what lies beneath, as shown in an undated NASA artist's video rendering, in this screengrab obtained from a handout video.Apophis is the name of a giant asteroid that was first discovered in 2004 by astronomers at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Tucson, Arizona.
A relic of the early solar system, Apophis is an ancient space rock that originated in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, according to NASA. For millions of years, it was altered by the gravitational influence of large planets such as Jupiter so that it is now much closer to Earth in its orbit of the sun.
It's now classified as a near-Earth asteroid rather than a main belt asteroid.
How big is Apophis?NASA compares the size of Apophis, which is about a quarter of a mile long, to the Eiffel Tower in France.
While the exact shape of Apophis remains a mystery, radar observations suggest it is an elongated peanut shape.
What was Apophis the god of? What is 99942?Apophis is named for an ancient god in Greek mythology for the sheer devastation its impact with Earth would bring.
The team of astronomers credited for Apophis' discovery – David Tholen, Fabrizio Bernardi and the late Roy Tucker – were also responsible for coming up with the asteroid's ominous name. Apophis is the Greek name for Apep, the ancient Egyptian god of evil and destruction.
But before Apophis attained its infamous moniker, it was dubbed the less-exciting 2004 MN4 by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). The asteroid was later assigned asteroid number 99942 by the Minor Planet Center – the official authority for observing and reporting new asteroids, comets and other small bodies in the solar system.
Asteroid Apophis to make close approach to Earth in 2029Apophis and Earth, each following its own orbit around the sun, will pass each other on April 13, 2029.
Apophis will pass Earth again March 30, 2036, though at a much farther distance of 5.2 million miles – or 20 times the distance between the Earth and moon, according to the Planetary Society.
Could Apophis hit Earth in 2029 or 2036? No risk of impactWhen Apophis was first spotted, it appeared the asteroid had a slight chance of hitting Earth in the coming decades, including 2029 and 2036.
But after further observations of its orbit, astronomers were able to rule out a risk of Apophis crashing into Earth for at least a century, according to NASA.
What would happen if Apophis hit Earth?Though not as big or catastrophic as the asteroid theorized to have wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago, Apophis would cause widespread destruction up to several hundred kilometers from its impact site.
The energy released would equal more than 1,000 megatons of TNT, or tens to hundreds of nuclear weapons, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit organization promoting space exploration.
NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope last observed come 3I/ATLAS on Nov. 30, about four months after Hubble's first look at the interstellar comet. 3I/ATLAS became one of the biggest cosmic stories of the year when astronomers deemed it to be the third-ever discovered interstellar object in our solar system originating from an entirely different part of the galaxy.
The High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter captured this image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS on Oct. 2, 2025. At the time it was imaged, the comet was about 19 million miles from the spacecraft. The comet didn't come nearly as close to Earth, when it reached a distance of 170 million miles from our planet on Dec. 19.
In June, the state-of-the-art Vera C. Rubin ground telescope in Chile unveiled its first stunning images of the cosmos. This particular image combines 678 separate images taken by the observatory in just over seven hours of observing time. Combining many images in this way clearly reveals otherwise faint or invisible details, such as the clouds of gas and dust that comprise the Trifid nebula (top) and the Lagoon nebula, which are several thousand light-years away from Earth.
2025 was a year of cosmic discoveries. Here's a look back at 6
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NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope last observed come 3I/ATLAS on Nov. 30, about four months after Hubble's first look at the interstellar comet. 3I/ATLAS became one of the biggest cosmic stories of the year when astronomers deemed it to be the third-ever discovered interstellar object in our solar system originating from an entirely different part of the galaxy.
How close will Apophis come to Earth?In less than three years, Apophis' orbit will bring it just 20,000 miles from Earth, the closest any large asteroid has ever come to our planet that scientists have known about in advance, according to NASA.
The asteroid poses no danger to our planet, nor is it a threat to satellites and the astronauts aboard the International Space Station orbiting Earth much closer to our atmosphere.
But the flyby poses a "totally unprecedented" opportunity for scientists to observe and learn much more about Apophis and similar near-Earth asteroids, NASA explains.
What will Apophis look like from Earth?Apophis will be visible to observers on the ground in the Eastern Hemisphere, including Europe, Africa and western Asia. What's more, you won't even need a telescope or binoculars to see it, as it will be large and close enough to be seen with the unaided eye.
At the projected distance and brightness, Apophis should look to the naked eye like a bright star moving across the sky, according to the Planetary Society.
NASA, ESA race to study Apophis
The NASA spacecraft OSIRIS-APEX travels away from Earth as it embarks on a journey headed for a 2029 rendezvous with the near-Earth asteroid Apophis, as shown in an undated NASA artist's video rendering, in this screengrab obtained from a handout video.
The NASA spacecraft OSIRIS-APEX travels away from Earth as it embarks on a journey headed for a 2029 rendezvous with the near-Earth asteroid Apophis, as shown in an undated NASA artist's video rendering, in this screengrab obtained from a handout video.In the coming years, NASA and the European Space Agency plan to take advantage of the rare flyby by sending uncrewed spacecraft to observe Apophis.
NASA's OSIRIS-REx, which gathered and returned a sample of asteroid Bennu in September 2023, has been renamed OSIRIS-APophis EXplorer (OSIRIS-APEX) and sent on a trajectory that would allow it to cross paths with the asteroid in 2029. Though it will not collect samples this time around, OSIRIS-APEX will reach Apophis in June that year for an 18-month campaign that involves firing its engines to kick up loose rocks and dust to offer a peek at the material just below the surface.
An art visualization shows how the European Space Agency's "Ramses" mission will approach the massive asteroid Apophis.
An art visualization shows how the European Space Agency's "Ramses" mission will approach the massive asteroid Apophis.The ESA plans to launch a spacecraft of its own called Ramses, which must be ready to launch a year ahead of time to meet Apophis before it passes by Earth. During that time, the mission will observe how the surface of the asteroid changes from being in such close proximity to Earth, the agency has previously said.
Could we stop an asteroid like Apophis?Should any asteroids pose a serious threat to Earth, NASA and the world's space agencies have had a planetary defense strategy in place for years against dangerous space rocks.
In 2022, for example, NASA's Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) demonstrated that it was possible to nudge an incoming asteroid out of harm's way by slamming a spacecraft into one intentionally. While the small moonlet asteroid Dimorphos posed no threat to Earth, the mission served as a successful demonstration that dangerous space rocks could be diverted from a collision course with Earth.
Recently, new research revealed that the mission not only altered the orbit of Dimorphos, but the larger near-Earth asteroid it orbits, named Didymos.
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Eric Lagatta is the Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at elagatta@usatodayco.com
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Apophis asteroid nearly 3 years to the day from 2029 Earth approach
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