Overview
- Chinese scientists outlined a CROWN/Apophis pathfinder in which two small satellites would wait at the Sun–Earth L1 point, then fly by Apophis shortly after its April 13, 2029 close pass.
- The pathfinder would rideshare to geosynchronous transfer orbit before spiraling to L1 and would carry cameras, low‑frequency radar and microwave ranging, with the team seeking partners and potential approval by year’s end.
- ESA’s Ramses reports on‑schedule progress following €70 million in early funding, with a critical design review starting in November, a late‑April to early‑May 2028 launch window and a February 2029 arrival.
- JAXA has requested funding to provide an infrared imager, solar arrays and an H3 launch for Ramses, while Ariane 6 remains a backup and ESA’s formal funding decision is due at the November ministerial.
- NASA’s OSIRIS‑APEX is being readied to rendezvous with Apophis before the encounter, as scientists reiterate the asteroid will pass safely at about 30,000 kilometers and be visible to the naked eye for many observers.