List of minor planets

Euler-Diagram bodies in the Solar System

List of Minor Planets

The List of Minor Planets encompasses the numerous celestial bodies that orbit the Sun within our solar system but are neither planets nor comets. These objects, often referred to as minor planets or asteroids, vary greatly in size, composition, and orbit. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) is the organization responsible for the classification and naming of these celestial bodies.

Overview

Minor planets are primarily found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, but they can also be located in other regions of our solar system, such as the Near-Earth Objects (NEOs), the Trojan asteroids of Jupiter and Neptune, and the distant Kuiper belt and Oort Cloud objects. As of the current date, hundreds of thousands of minor planets have been discovered, with many more expected to be found.

Classification

Minor planets are classified into various groups and families based on their orbital characteristics, physical properties, and locations within the solar system. Some of the major groups include:

• Main-belt asteroids: Located between Mars and Jupiter, this is where the majority of minor planets are found.
• Near-Earth asteroids (NEAs): These objects have orbits that bring them close to the Earth's orbit.
• Trojan asteroids: These are found in the Lagrangian points of larger planets, sharing the planet's orbit around the Sun.
• Centaurs and Trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs): Located beyond the orbit of Neptune, these objects include those in the Kuiper belt and Oort Cloud.

Discovery and Observation

The discovery of minor planets has accelerated over the past few decades thanks to advancements in telescope technology and astronomy. Automated survey programs, such as the Pan-STARRS, LINEAR, and Spacewatch, have contributed significantly to the increase in discoveries. Once a minor planet is observed, its position and movement are tracked over time to determine its orbit, size, and sometimes its shape and composition.

Naming Conventions

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) oversees the naming of minor planets. Initially, a provisional designation is given, which is based on the object's discovery date. Once its orbit is well-determined, it is assigned a permanent number, and the discoverer is invited to suggest a name, subject to the IAU's approval.

Significance

The study of minor planets provides valuable insights into the early solar system, the formation of planets, and the dynamics of solar system evolution. Some minor planets are of particular interest due to their potential threat and benefit to Earth. For example, Near-Earth asteroids are closely monitored for any potential impact threat, while others are considered for their resource potential in future space exploration and asteroid mining endeavors.

See Also

• Asteroid mining
• Comet
• Dwarf planet
• Meteoroid
• Planetary defense