Asteroid Apophis (2004 MN4) expected to pass within 5 minutes of impact in 2029. Asteroid 2004 MN4 (renamed Apophis) expected close approach on April 13, 2029 Predicted closest approach is 3,380 km or 0.53 Earth radii, equivalent to only under 5 minutes from potential impact at 12.6 km/s closing velocity Earth's gravitational pull may alter the asteroid's orbital path, making its 2036 return flyby unpredictable

Asteroid Apophis (2004 MN4) is expected to pass just 3,380 km from Earth on April 13, 2029 — that's under 5 minutes from potential impact at its 12.6 km/s closing speed. Earth's gravity may shift its orbit unpredictably for a 2036 return. A hit would dwarf the 2004 Asian tsunami in devastation.

Key Facts

  • Asteroid 2004 MN4 (renamed Apophis) expected close approach on April 13, 2029
  • Predicted closest approach is 3,380 km or 0.53 Earth radii, equivalent to only under 5 minutes from potential impact at 12.6 km/s closing velocity
  • Earth's gravitational pull may alter the asteroid's orbital path, making its 2036 return flyby unpredictable
  • An impact could cause a catastrophe far exceeding the 2004 Asian tsunami
  • January 2004: 2004 AS1 (~30-500m) briefly estimated at 1-in-4 chance of striking Earth within 36 hours before being cleared
  • Other significant close approaches: 2005 YU55 (1,400 ft, ~12,000 megatons); 2002 EM7 (Tunguska-sized, approached in sun's glare unobserved); 2014 RC (Chelyabinsk-sized)
  • Speakers propose the Younger Dryas (~12,800-12,900 years ago) was caused by a series of cosmic impacts, supported by ancient civilizations' symbology

Source: THE ASTROID EPISODE: The Dangers and Opportunities by The Randall Carlson