The Why Files: Operation Podcast

607: Asteroid Apophis is Coming | Ground Zero: California

22 snips
Aug 12, 2025
Asteroid Apophis is set for a close pass by Earth in 2029, triggering excitement and concern. With thousands of hidden city-killers lurking in space, the risk is palpable. The podcast explores the chaos in Los Angeles as residents panic and wealthy individuals flee. A vivid depiction of societal breakdown unfolds, revealing humanity's vulnerability to cosmic forces. The potential for disaster looms large, underscoring the urgent need for planetary defense as we grapple with the remnants of past impacts.
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INSIGHT

Apophis' Startling Impact Odds

  • Two astronomers discovered 2004 MN4 and rapid tracking showed a real collision risk.
  • In December scientists announced a 2.7% chance Apophis would hit Earth on April 13, 2029.
INSIGHT

Small Forces, Big Consequences

  • Tiny forces like solar radiation and the Yarkovsky effect nudge asteroid orbits over decades.
  • Those minute shifts can route Apophis through a gravitational keyhole and guarantee a future impact.
ANECDOTE

Orderly Panic Among The Wealthy

  • Officials and elites evacuated to secure locations like Cheyenne Mountain while highways jammed.
  • Beverly Hills emptied and three million people fled Los Angeles in just two weeks.
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