Objects Encyclopedia Entry 1781271784
Summary: 1781271784 is a rare and fascinating Asteroid discovered in the outer reaches of the Solar System, offering insights into the formation and evolution of our cosmic neighborhood.
Overview
1781271784, a small, irregularly shaped Asteroid, was first detected on February 12, 2001, by the Spacewatch survey at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona, USA. Initially classified as a Near-Earth Object (NEO), it was later reclassified as a Main Belt Asteroid due to its stable orbital characteristics. This asteroid's unique properties make it an intriguing subject for astronomers and planetary scientists.
The discovery of 1781271784 marked a significant milestone in the ongoing quest to understand the Solar System's structure and evolution. As a member of the Asteroid Belt, this object provides valuable information about the formation and migration of small bodies within our cosmic neighborhood. By studying 1781271784, scientists can gain insights into the early history of the Solar System, including the processes that shaped the Asteroid Belt and the Kuiper Belt.
History/Background
The discovery of 1781271784 is a testament to the advancements in Astronomical Survey techniques and Telescope technology. The Spacewatch survey, led by Dr. Robert S. McMillan, has been instrumental in detecting and tracking numerous Asteroids and Comets since its inception in 1980. The Kitt Peak National Observatory, operated by the National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO), has played a crucial role in the discovery of many celestial objects, including 1781271784.
Key Information
* Orbital Characteristics: 1781271784 orbits the Sun at an average distance of approximately 2.6 astronomical units (AU), with a highly eccentric orbit that takes it as close as 1.8 AU and as far as 3.4 AU from the Sun.
* Size and Shape: Estimated to be around 10 kilometers in diameter, 1781271784 is a small, irregularly shaped Asteroid with a highly elongated shape.
* Surface Composition: Preliminary observations suggest that 1781271784 has a surface composed primarily of Carbonaceous Chondrite material, which is rich in organic compounds and water.
* Rotation Period: The asteroid's rotation period is approximately 6.3 hours, which is relatively fast compared to other Asteroids.
Significance
The discovery and study of 1781271784 have significant implications for our understanding of the Solar System. By analyzing the asteroid's composition, shape, and orbital characteristics, scientists can gain insights into the early history of the Solar System, including the formation of the Asteroid Belt and the Kuiper Belt. Additionally, the study of 1781271784 can provide valuable information about the potential for Asteroid resources, such as water and organic compounds, which could be essential for future Space Exploration missions.
INFOBOX:
- Name: 1781271784
- Type: Asteroid
- Date: February 12, 2001
- Location: Main Belt
- Known For: Unique composition and orbital characteristics
TAGS: Asteroid, Solar System, Spacewatch, Kitt Peak National Observatory, Astronomical Survey, Telescope, Near-Earth Object (NEO), Main Belt Asteroid, Carbonaceous Chondrite, Space Exploration
