ApophisExL
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Apophis SERV Hotspot
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About Apophis

Fast facts

    Why it matters

    The 2029 close approach will be a once-in-a-lifetime event. Apophis will pass inside the ring where geostationary satellites orbit. It is an unprecedented opportunity to study a near‑Earth asteroid up close, improve planetary defense models, and inspire the next generation.

    Look closer

    Use the 3D view above to examine surface features. Click glowing markers to reveal science notes, composition hints, and navigation cues. Rotate to find the SERV vehicle holding station nearby.

    2029 Flyby

    Key moments

      Illustrative trajectory

      For illustration only, not for navigation. Final path and visibility can change with updated ephemerides.

      Who can see it

      Large parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia are expected to have a view in the night sky at closest approach, weather permitting. Urban light and clouds will affect visibility. We will publish city‑level guidance as the date approaches.

      ApophisExL Mission

      SERV platform

      ExLabs SERV is a modular spacecraft designed for rendezvous, inspection, and rapid reconfiguration in space. For ApophisExL, SERV conducts proximity ops, remote sensing, and data relay tasks to characterize the asteroid and demonstrate persistent in‑space operations.

      Objectives

      • Proximity operations and optical navigation
      • Spectral and thermal surface characterization
      • Gravity field and rotation estimation
      • Radio science, link testing, and data downlink
      • Open science data for education and partners

      Partners & community

      Universities, agencies, and industry partners collaborate on instruments, experiments, and public engagement. The mission emphasizes open access learning, with media that invites everyone to take part.

      Discover

      Hidden artifacts are scattered around the scene. Find the gold vein, decode the beacon, and unlock SERV diagnostics. Press M for mining mode, W for a brief warp, T for a tesseract. Try the classic gamer code.