Asteroid Apus and Its Potential Impact on Earth

What was the initial concern about asteroid Apus when it was discovered?

• It was on a collision course with Mars.

• It had a potential trajectory towards Earth.

• It was believed to be a new planet.

• It was the largest asteroid ever found.

Where do most asteroids in our solar system originate from?

• The rings of Saturn

• The Oort Cloud

• The main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter

• The Kuiper Belt

What event in 2013 highlighted the potential dangers of asteroid collisions?

• A meteor exploded over the Ural Mountains in Russia.

• A solar flare disrupted communications.

• An asteroid hit the Moon.

• A comet passed close to Earth.

What was the initial probability of Apus hitting Earth in 2029?

• 2.7%

• 0.5%

• 10%

• 5%

What is the main reason scientists continue to monitor Apus?

• It is the largest asteroid in the solar system.

• Its trajectory could be altered by other space objects.

• It is expected to collide with the Moon.

• It is a source of valuable minerals.

Which asteroid is of particular concern due to its close approach to Apus in 2026?

• Asteroid 99942 Apophis

• Asteroid 433 Eros

• Asteroid 4544 Xanthus

• Asteroid 243 Ida

What is one proposed method to prevent an asteroid from hitting Earth?

• Pushing it with a giant magnet

• Using a nuclear explosion to destroy it

• Changing its orbit with a gravity tractor

• Capturing it with a large net

What is the purpose of the Osiris Apex mission?

• To land humans on Apus

• To collect samples from the Moon

• To study Apus before and after its flyby

• To deflect Apus from its current path

What is the potential consequence if Apus were to strike Earth?

• A new ice age

• A volcanic eruption

• A massive tsunami

• A global blackout

What is the current status of Apus' threat to Earth for the next century?

• It poses no threat for the next 100 years.

• It will pass by the Moon.

• It will disintegrate in space.

• It is expected to collide with Earth.