Bringing together more than 70 experts from space agencies, research institutions, educational organisations, and science communication networks, the programme aims to strengthen global understanding of asteroids and promote international cooperation on planetary defence.

The initiative is centred on the close approach of asteroid Apophis on 13 April 2029, when the near-Earth object will pass closer to Earth than some orbiting satellites.

Although the asteroid poses no danger of impact, the event presents a rare opportunity to engage the public in asteroid science and highlight the systems already in place to detect and monitor potential threats.

Through a coordinated programme of worldwide activities, Asteroids2029 seeks to increase awareness of asteroid research, encourage citizen participation in science, and leave a lasting legacy of stronger international collaboration on planetary defence ahead of the historic fly-by.

Asteroids2029 prepares the world for Apophis

Operating under the theme “Observe. Explore. Safeguard.”, Asteroids2029 brings together governments, space agencies, scientific organisations, educators, and communicators to showcase both the scientific value of asteroids and the importance of monitoring potentially hazardous objects.

The campaign is inspired by the exceptionally close passage of asteroid (99942) Apophis, one of the most closely observed near-Earth asteroids.

During its approach in April 2029, billions of people across the globe may be able to view the asteroid in the night sky without specialist equipment, making it one of the most accessible astronomical events in recent history.

Organisers believe the event provides an unprecedented opportunity to connect people worldwide with the science of asteroids while demonstrating the international partnerships that underpin modern planetary defence efforts.

Global participation at the heart of the initiative

Public engagement forms a central pillar of Asteroids2029. The initiative encourages people of all ages to observe the skies, participate in citizen science projects, and learn more about asteroids through educational resources and public events.

Activities will be organised around the world and are expected to include astronomy observation sessions, educational programmes, outreach campaigns, and collaborative scientific events. Many of these activities will culminate during the weeks surrounding the Apophis close approach in April 2029.

Alongside public participation, the initiative aims to strengthen international dialogue on protecting Earth from asteroid hazards while building greater scientific literacy among communities worldwide.

International programme to strengthen planetary defence

Throughout 2029, Asteroids2029 will coordinate a broad programme of global initiatives designed to support asteroid awareness and long-term planetary defence collaboration.

Key elements of the programme include establishing national and organisational coordination hubs to deliver regional activities, developing flagship international projects, creating forums for global discussion on planetary safety, expanding worldwide communication campaigns, supporting educational and capacity-building programmes, and providing opportunities for coordinated asteroid observations by professionals and citizen scientists alike.

The organisers hope these efforts will extend beyond the International Year by encouraging sustained cooperation between scientific institutions, governments, educators, and the public.

New online hub supports Asteroids2029

To support the growing international campaign, Asteroids2029 has launched a dedicated website that will act as the central information hub for the initiative.

The platform will provide updates on events, educational materials, asteroid science, planetary defence, and opportunities for international collaboration.

Additional resources, regional information, multilingual content, and new partner activities will be added as preparations continue towards the Apophis flyby in 2029.

The organisers are encouraging individuals, organisations, and communities worldwide to become involved by participating in events, supporting outreach activities, contributing to observation campaigns, and helping raise awareness of one of the decade’s most significant astronomical events.