Key Information
(300163) 2006 VW139
| Type | Asteroid (Binary) |
| Diameter | About 1 mile (A & B) |
| Distance from the Sun | 283,403,665 miles |
| Orbit Time | 5.32 years |
| Length of Day | Unknown |
| Temperature | Unknown |
| Date of Discovery | 15 November 2006 |
| Moons | None |
Learning Point
- (300163) 2006 VW139 is a binary asteroid, with both asteroids being of similar size. They leave behind a slight tail, similar to a comet, and have been observed rotating around a common center of gravity called the barycenter. It has been suggested the two asteroids formed after breaking apart from one original asteroid.
Project
- Decide on some names you think we should use for asteroids, including two for (300163) 2006 VW139.
- Overview
- Orbit Animation
Location
| Located in | Solar System, orbiting the Sun |
| Places | Worldwide, except Antarctica |
Fun Facts
- The process by which oddly shaped objects can increase in spin is called YORP effect, and can lead to the object breaking apart over time.
- The barycenter is the common point of gravity between two or more objects orbiting close by each other.
- Any object with a satellite (moon or planet) will have a barycenter, though if it is small enough it will be almost indiscernible.
- Their common orbit takes around 135 days to complete.
Past Lessons
| 90 | May 13, 2024 | (North America) |