A collisional family of icy objects in the Kuiper belt

Article Abstract:

The discovery of a family of Kuiper belt objects with surface properties and orbits that are nearly identical to those of 2003 [EL.sub.61] is reported. The dual spectroscopic and dynamical approach has provided circumstantial evidence for the identification of this collisional family, which appears to be fragments of the ejected ice mantle of 2003 [EL.sub.61].

Author: Brown, Michael E., Barkume, Kristina M., Ragozzine, Darin, Schaller, Emily L.
Kuiper Belt, Astronomical collisions

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Spun in the sun

Article Abstract:

Scientists have observed that two asteroids near the Earth are gradually spinning faster, with no way to control or stop their rotation. Studies reveal that the reason for this spin is sunlight, which when reflected and re-emitted from the asteroid's surface, creates a torque that leads to big changes in the asteroid's motion.

Author: Bottke, William F.
Analysis, Torque, Mechanics, Celestial, Celestial mechanics

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Subjects list: Research, Asteroids
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