NASA has found a way to explore the dark energy of space and will launch a telescope in August 2026.

NASA has identified an asteroid comparable in size to the Eiffel Tower, set to make a historic close approach to Earth on April 13, 2029. The asteroid, known as 99942 Apophis, will pass within approximately 32,000 kilometers of Earth's surface, a distance closer than many satellites orbiting the planet. This event marks the closest encounter with such a large object since recorded history began, according to official data released by NASA. The asteroid measures around 340 meters in diameter, with its longest axis reaching up to 450 meters, making it roughly equivalent in height to the Eiffel Tower. Its proximity has sparked global interest, though scientists have confirmed there is no risk of collision with Earth or its satellites for at least the next century. Apophis was initially nicknamed "God of Chaos," referencing the Egyptian deity Apep, but NASA has dismissed any threat posed by the asteroid. The agency emphasized that the flyby presents a unique scientific opportunity rather than a danger. Researchers believe the gravitational forces exerted by Earth during the encounter could cause changes in the asteroid’s rotation or even trigger surface shifts. These effects offer valuable insights into the internal structure of asteroids. Patrick Michel, from France’s National Center for Scientific Research, described the event as unprecedented, stating that nature is providing scientists with a rare chance to study such an object directly. The origin of Apophis dates back over 4.6 billion years, originating in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter before being displaced toward Earth due to the gravitational influence of giant planets. As an S-type asteroid, it is primarily composed of silicates and metals such as nickel and iron. Scientists plan to monitor these characteristics closely during its passage. NASA has redirected its OSIRIS-APEX mission, which previously explored the asteroid Bennu, to observe Apophis shortly after its closest approach. Meanwhile, the European Space Agency is developing the Ramses mission to accompany the asteroid along its trajectory, tracking real-time changes in its orbit and structure. According to NASA, Apophis currently completes its solar orbit in 0.9 years and is classified as an Aten-type asteroid. However, following the gravitational interaction in 2029, its orbit will expand, transforming it into an Apollo-type asteroid with an orbital period of 1.2 years. Observers in the eastern hemisphere may spot the asteroid with the naked eye under favorable weather conditions, without requiring advanced equipment. An international network of observatories and high-precision radars will track variations in its brightness and spatial orientation throughout the event. While this specific encounter poses no threat, experts stress the importance of developing capabilities to detect and study near-Earth objects. Such efforts are crucial for understanding potential future risks and advancing planetary defense strategies. NASA continues to refine its observational techniques, ensuring that the upcoming flyby provides maximum scientific value. In addition to monitoring Apophis, NASA is preparing for another major space mission focused on exploring dark energy. The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, scheduled for launch on August 30, 2026, aims to investigate dark energy through three-dimensional maps, infrared images, and measurements of hundreds of millions of galaxies. The telescope will also study dark matter and exoplanets. It will be launched from Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center. Dark energy, responsible for the accelerated expansion of the universe, constitutes nearly 68% of the universe’s total content. Despite recent findings suggesting its properties might change over time, much about its true nature remains unknown. The Roman telescope will analyze different cosmic epochs to better understand how the universe’s expansion has evolved. One of the key programs aboard Roman is the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Probe, which will cover more than 5,000 square degrees, nearly 12% of the sky, in less than 18 months. The survey will combine spectroscopy with imaging using multiple filters. Spectroscopic analysis will determine galaxy distances based on wavelength measurements, while imaging will capture positions, shapes, and sizes of billions of faint galaxies. The telescope will travel to the L2 Lagrange point, located approximately 1.6 million kilometers from Earth, four times the distance to the Moon. Preparations for the Roman mission include loading 290 gallons (1,098 liters) of hydrazine fuel, essential for maneuvering once separated from the rocket. Engineers have already begun integrating the spacecraft with components from SpaceX, including placing it inside the Falcon Heavy’s protective fairing and transporting it to the company’s facility at Launch Pad 39A for final integration with the rocket. The mission is currently nine months ahead of schedule, reflecting the progress made in assembling and testing the spacecraft.