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Objects Encyclopedia Entry 1781271784

** 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**