WhyCosmo

  In a thrilling turn of events, the spacecraft formerly OSIRIS-REx was rebranded as OSIRIS-APEX and set on an unprecedented mission to explore the enigmatic asteroid Apophis . Name taken from the ancient Egyptian god of darkness , this asteroid's upcoming flyby of Earth in 2029 promises to be a monumental event unseen since recorded history began. OSIRIS-APEX: A New Mission Unfolds After a successful seven-year, four billion-mile journey collecting samples from asteroid Bennu, OSIRIS-REx's mission was extended . With its instruments in top condition and plenty of fuel left, NASA decided to repurpose the spacecraft for a new mission: exploring Apophis. This decision marks a significant progression in the spacecraft's journey as it transitions from Bennu's carbon-rich terrain to Apophis, an S-type asteroid composed of silicate materials and nickel-iron. Apophis: An Unprecedented Close Encounter Approximately 367 yards (340 meters) across Apophis will pass within 20,0...

  In a significant announcement, ISRO Chairman S. Somnath revealed that ISRO ( the Indian Space Research Organisation ) is gearing up for a groundbreaking study of the Apophis asteroid when it makes its closest approach to Earth in 2029 . This ambitious mission will see ISRO joining forces with leading space agencies such as NASA , JAXA , and ESA , highlighting India's growing prowess in space exploration. The Apophis Study: A Global Endeavor The 340-meter-wide Apophis asteroid, named after the ancient Egyptian god of chaos, will come alarmingly close to Earth in 2029. This rare event has spurred a global effort to study the asteroid and develop strategies for planetary defense. ISRO's collaboration with international partners underscores the importance of a united approach to tackle potential cosmic threats. A Dire Warning from ISRO Chief In a recent interview, S. Somnath discussed the real possibility of an asteroid impact on Earth. He emphasized the need for preparednes...