Apophis Strikes Earth: Odds still 1 in 45,000

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In summary, there is a debate surrounding the potential threat of asteroid Apophis colliding with geostationary satellites. Some sources argue that the chances of this happening are very low, while others claim that the orbit is crowded and could lead to collisions. However, it is important to consider the facts and use mathematics rather than arguing to determine the actual risk. Additionally, Apophis is not expected to come close enough to these satellites to cause any damage.
  • #1
Brad_Ad23
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This is sort of in response to an article Ivan posted in the locked Apophis thread:
http://www.physorg.com/news127499715.html [Broken]

The above is the url from Ivan.

Below are urls to the contrary

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/04/16/esa_german_schoolboy_apophis_denial/?rss
http://cosmos4u.blogspot.com/2008/04/apophis-risk-not-increased-science-fair.html

http://neo.jpl.nasa.gov/news/news158.html [Broken]This is an example of very, very, shoddy journalism.
 
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  • #2
Even if the asteroid did pass through the zone occupied by geostationary satellites, the density isn't really all that high. I can't imagine that it would have that much of a chance of hitting one.
 
  • #3
russ_watters said:
Even if the asteroid did pass through the zone occupied by geostationary satellites, the density isn't really all that high. I can't imagine that it would have that much of a chance of hitting one.

Indeed! I'd say the odds are less than 1 in 45,000 that that would happen.
 
  • #4
This must be answered by using mathematics, not aguing.
 
  • #5
I keep hearing stuff about how crowded that orbit is. Is it really that vacant? What is the avarage distance between those satelites?
 
  • #6
First, Apophis won't even come close to the projection of Earth's equator out to geostationary altitude. Second, even if it did, there is a big difference between Apophis and satellites at geostationary altitude that are not quite geosynchronous anymore. Apophis will come barreling through at hyperbolic speed, and do so once. Those not-quite-geosynchronous satellites have a chance to hit each and every geosynchronous satellite, and have that chance many times over.
 

What is Apophis Strikes Earth?

Apophis Strikes Earth is a hypothetical scenario in which a large asteroid, named Apophis, collides with Earth.

What are the odds of Apophis striking Earth?

The current estimated odds of Apophis striking Earth are 1 in 45,000.

What are the potential consequences of Apophis striking Earth?

If Apophis were to strike Earth, it could cause catastrophic damage, potentially leading to mass extinction of life on our planet.

Is there a plan in place to prevent Apophis from striking Earth?

Yes, there are ongoing efforts by scientists and space agencies to study Apophis and develop potential strategies to divert its course if necessary.

When is Apophis projected to make its closest approach to Earth?

Apophis is projected to make its closest approach to Earth on April 13, 2029, but current predictions indicate that it will not impact our planet at that time.

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