Asteroid 59

Asteroid 59

Keywords: Asteroid, Psyche, Metals, NASA, Mission

Asteroid 59, known as Elpis, is a unique celestial body that has captured the attention of scientists due to its unusual composition. Discovered in 1860, it is the namesake of the Psyche class of asteroids, which are composed primarily of metal.

Physical Properties

Asteroid 59 has a diameter of approximately 226 kilometers (140 miles) and is one of the largest metallic asteroids in the Solar System. Its density is estimated to be around 4,500 kilograms per cubic meter, suggesting a solid core of iron and nickel. Studies using the Hubble Space Telescope have revealed a complex surface with craters, ridges, and a large impact basin.

Composition

Elpis is believed to be a remnant of a protoplanet that formed early in the history of the Solar System. During the planet’s formation, it is possible that its outer rocky layer was stripped away by collisions with other objects. This left behind the metal core, which we observe today as Asteroid 59.

Importance

The metallic composition of Asteroid 59 makes it a valuable target for scientific exploration. Studying this asteroid could provide insights into the early formation of planets and the composition of the Earth’s core. In addition, its potential for containing valuable metals has commercial implications.

NASA Mission

In 2023, NASA’s Psyche mission is scheduled to launch to explore Asteroid 59. The mission will send a spacecraft to orbit the asteroid and map its surface, measure its magnetic field, and determine its composition. The data collected from this mission is expected to revolutionize our understanding of metallic asteroids and shed light on the origins of our planet.