In 2021, NASA provided a significant update on the asteroid Apophis, which had previously been identified as a potentially hazardous object. After conducting new telescope observations, NASA announced that any chance of Apophis hitting Earth in 2068 had been ruled out. The asteroid Apophis, estimated to be about 1,100 feet (340 meters) across, was discovered in 2004 and initially raised concerns due to its size and close approach to Earth. However, through continued observations and precise orbit analysis, astronomers were able to refine its orbit and determine that it poses no risk to Earth for at least the next 100 years. The critical observations were made in March 2021, when Apophis made a distant flyby of Earth. Using ground-based radar, scientists were able to determine the precise distance to Apophis and its velocity, significantly reducing the uncertainty in its orbit. This new data showed that Apophis will pass safely by Earth in 2029 and will not enter the "keyhole" in near-Earth space that could have deflected it onto a collision course in 2068.

The removal of Apophis from the risk list is a significant development, as it was once considered one of the most hazardous asteroids. The close approach in 2029 will provide an unprecedented opportunity for astronomers to study Apophis up close, offering valuable insights into this solar system relic. According to Davide Farnocchia of NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies, "A 2068 impact is not in the realm of possibility anymore, and our calculations don’t show any impact risk for at least the next 100 years". This update provides reassurance that Earth is safe from this particular asteroid threat for the foreseeable future.