The James Webb Space Telescope has revealed an unusual space rock, named 2060 Chiron, that combines features of both comets and asteroids. Located between Jupiter and Neptune, this “centaur” offers scientists a unique opportunity to study the early solar system.
In its orbit, Chiron travels in an oblong loop, completing one cycle every 50 years. Recent observations by the JWST detected frozen carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide on its icy nucleus, as well as gases such as methane and carbon dioxide in the surrounding gas cloud. This is a first for centaurs like Chiron.
Researchers have found that Chiron’s coma, or cloud of gas and dust around the nucleus, contains both carbon monoxide and water ice. The detection of these gases provides insight into Chiron’s composition and how it interacts with its environment.
The team also detected lightweight carbon-containing molecules, such as ethane and propane, on Chiron for the first time. These findings suggest that Chiron may have retained simpler molecules from the solar system’s formation.
Future studies will focus on understanding Chiron’s nucleus and coma better, particularly when it comes to seasonal changes and illumination patterns. By studying this unique object, scientists can gain valuable insights into the early solar system and its composition.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/space/asteroids/like-nothing-weve-seen-before-james-webb-telescope-spies-a-mysterious-asteroid-comet-hybrid-lurking-past-jupiter