In 2029, the asteroid Apophis, an object approximately 375 meters wide, will execute a close flyby of Earth. The European Space Agency (ESA) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) have initiated the Ramses mission, an international collaboration designed to observe the effects of Earth's gravity on the asteroid. This mission aims to collect data relevant to advancing planetary defense methodologies.
Apophis's Close Approach
On April 13, 2029, Apophis is projected to pass within 32,000 kilometers of Earth, a distance approximately one-tenth that of the Moon. While this trajectory does not indicate a direct impact threat, the close proximity provides a unique observational opportunity for scientific research.
International Collaboration on Ramses
The Ramses mission represents a cooperative effort between ESA and JAXA to study the gravitational interactions Apophis experiences from Earth. JAXA is scheduled to launch the Ramses spacecraft utilizing its H3 rocket and will contribute advanced technologies, including a thermal infrared imager previously employed on the Hayabusa2 mission. ESA will provide scientific expertise, encompassing mission planning and execution.
Fujimoto Masaki, Director General of the JAXA Institute of Space and Astronautical Science, affirmed the significance of this international undertaking, citing close collaboration with the ESA Space Safety Program.
Implications for Planetary Defense
The close approach of Apophis offers a chance to study an asteroid's response to external gravitational forces, which can inform future strategies for protecting Earth from potential asteroid threats. Patrick Michel, a planetary scientist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), stated that the mission will enhance understanding of how small celestial bodies react under gravitational stress. This information is considered vital for developing asteroid deflection techniques.
Michel further noted that the natural interaction provided by Apophis's flyby presents an observational opportunity. The data gathered is expected to contribute to the understanding of asteroid deflection, including methods such as kinetic impact.
Broader Cooperation
The project demonstrates international collaboration in space exploration. Despite operational differences between the agencies, a partnership has been established. Michel indicated that this collaboration could serve as an example of global cooperation in preparation for the 2029 Apophis flyby.