On 13 April 2029, a large asteroid called Apophis, about 350 meters wide, will come very close to Earth—so close that more than 2 billion people in Europe and North Africa, and possibly other areas, may be able to see it with the naked eye under dark skies. The asteroid will not hit Earth; however, this rare event — the first of its kind in recorded history — gives scientists and the public a chance to learn more about asteroids, the potential risks they can pose, and see how countries can work together to protect the planet if an asteroid impact ever threatens us.

Asteroids are time capsules from the dawn of the Solar System — scientifically priceless, hazardous when they strike Earth, and possibly vital to humanity’s future in space. They are the leftover building blocks of our Solar System, relics from the time when planets were forming more than 4.5 billion years ago. Studying them gives scientists a direct look into the ingredients and conditions that shaped Earth and its neighbors. Many asteroids contain primitive materials like metals, carbon compounds, and water-bearing minerals that tell the story of how life’s essential elements were distributed through space.

The Asteroids2029 activities will take place on several levels: locally, nationally, regionally, and internationally. Browse through to learn more about Asteroids2029 and find events near you, or develop one of your own!