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What are the Real odds of Apophis impact?
Last post 07-24-2008 11:43 PM by Centaur. 4 replies.
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  • 07-24-2008 02:45 AM

    What are the Real odds of Apophis impact?

    Ok the last I hard it was a 1/45,000 chance but I’ve seen some other sources (Not youtube) are saying its now either 1/8,000 or 1/5,550.  Now is it still 1/45,000? I ask because I have a buddy that’s been wondering about this.  I’ve told him its still 1/ 45,000 but has asked me to asked you guys to be sure.

     I’m not asking if it will end life or cause mass destruction, all I want to know is what is the current odds of impact?

     

  • 07-24-2008 08:21 AM In reply to

    Re: What are the Real odds of Apophis impact?

    You might find this interesting reading.

    It is predicted to miss Earth by about 5 Earth radii in 2029. The year of concern, however, is 2036 and its likelihood of an impact on that passage depends on exactly where it passes Earth in 2029.

    Researchers don't agree on the odds of an impact in 2036, but they are dicey enough that this one is getting lots of attention. The radar-mapped orbit at the link above is the most precise I could find in a quick search.

    The risk assessment table is here. Note that the uncertainty is given as "a factor of a few, and occasionally by a factor of ten or more."

    Best to stay away from YouTube ...

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  • 07-24-2008 05:07 PM In reply to

    Re: What are the Real odds of Apophis impact?

    The ultimate truth is that the odds are either 1.00 or 0.00; it will either hit or miss.  Any other figures are based on imperfect measurements and uncertainty about non-gravitational effects.  As more is known, the statistical probabilities become revised.  However the 2036 passage is especially difficult to assess, since the close 2029 passage would spread out the possibilities for the asteroid’s future course.  

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  • 07-24-2008 10:55 PM In reply to

    Re: What are the Real odds of Apophis impact?

    Thanks for the replies and I’ll give the links you gave me a once over when I get some more time.  On a side note what do you think the odds are for it to become a captured object and become our second moon?  Are there any Reports or odds of this happening as well?  

  • 07-24-2008 11:43 PM In reply to

    Re: What are the Real odds of Apophis impact?

    Kratos Aurion:

     On a side note what do you think the odds are for it to become a captured object and become our second moon?  

    That’s almost impossible.  A glancing collision with either the Earth (or its atmosphere) or the Moon or another asteroid combined with a near perfect positioning of all these objects would be required.  Modern computer simulations have demonstrated that capture scenarios are far less likely than was assumed in the past

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