Astronomers predict that Earth’s gravitational pull during Apophis’ close approach in April 2029 could cause quakes and landslides on the asteroid’s surface.

Apophis, a 1,100-foot-wide asteroid, will pass within 24,000 miles of Earth—much closer than the Moon.

The event is expected to alter Apophis’ spin and surface, revealing insights into asteroid composition and solar system history.

NASA’s OSIRIS-APEX mission is en route to study these changes up close, Gizmodo has reported.

Although Apophis poses no threat to Earth, its size and proximity highlight why near-Earth objects are closely monitored.

Written by B.C. Begley