A massive asteroid will pass closer to Earth than some satellites.

The cosmos harbors not only incredibly beautiful phenomena but also asteroids that could potentially harm our planet. One such asteroid, "Apophis," was once thought to be on a collision course with Earth, but it will instead pass by in 2029. If the 340-meter asteroid were to collide with our planet, it could obliterate an entire city.

Scientists are confident that the asteroid poses no threat to Earth, even though it will come very close—closer than some satellites in low Earth orbit. On April 13, 2029, "Apophis" will approach Earth at a distance of 32,000 km.

Not only does "Apophis" pose a potential influence on Earth, but the asteroid also affects our planet. Before it flies past, there will be underground tremors that will continue for some time after its closest approach. Some boulders from the surface of "Apophis" may be dislodged and, due to the asteroid's weak gravity, drift away and even burn up in Earth's atmosphere; however, most of them will fall back onto "Apophis." Additionally, the planet's gravity will cause the asteroid to rotate either faster or slower. These processes will permanently alter its appearance.

The changes that may occur with the asteroid will be monitored by NASA's OSIRIS-APEX mission. For 18 months following its encounter with Earth, they will study the asteroid "Apophis" and its transformations.

Previously, "Telegraf" reported on an intriguing discovery on the asteroid Vesta. Water was found there, which should not be present.