India Hints at Exploration Plan for Asteroid Apophis, Approaching Earth in 2029

 

 

 

S. Somanath, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), hinted at plans to explore the asteroid 'Apophis,' which is expected to approach Earth in April 2029. He emphasized the significance of this opportunity for asteroid research.

Attending 'International Asteroid Day' on July 3, Chairman Somanath stated, "Apophis will come as close as 48,000 km to Earth on April 13, 2029," and added, "This is a rare opportunity for humanity to closely study an asteroid."

He argued that India needs to actively participate in this exploration project.

Chairman Somanath emphasized that India has already secured space exploration technology through missions like the Chandrayaan-3 lunar south pole exploration mission and the 'Aditya-L1' solar exploration mission.

He said, "Based on these technological capabilities, India is preparing for the Apophis exploration and aims to achieve greater results through collaboration with other countries."

Additionally, he expressed his willingness to pursue joint projects with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the European Space Agency (ESA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), saying, "We will provide all possible support to contribute to and learn from the Apophis exploration within the framework of international cooperation."

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India Hints at Exploration Plan for Asteroid Apophis, Approaching Earth in 2029