352 Asteroids Likely Have Little Moonlets

Identifying asteroids with moons that can be detected is vital for future space exploration

A Diverse Range of Asteroids with Moons

Astronomers have discovered 352 asteroids that likely have moons, providing new insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system. These asteroids, found primarily in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, exhibit a diverse range of sizes, shapes, and compositions.

Most of the asteroids with moons are small, with diameters ranging from a few kilometers to tens of kilometers. However, some larger asteroids, such as Vesta and Ceres, also have moons.

The moons of asteroids are thought to have formed in various ways. Some may have formed from the same material that formed the asteroid itself, while others may have been captured by the asteroid's gravitational pull.

Implications for Future Space Exploration

Identifying asteroids with moons is crucial for space exploration. These moons could provide resources such as water, minerals, and other materials that could be valuable for future space missions and could serve as potential targets for future exploration.