The binary asteroid 288P (artist’s impression)
This artist’s impression shows the binary asteroid 288P, located in the main asteroid belt between the planets Mars and Jupiter. The object is unique as it is a binary asteroid which also behaves like a comet. The comet-like properties are the result of water sublimation, caused by the heat of the Sun. The orbit of the asteroids is marked by a blue ellipse.
Credit:ESA/Hubble, L. Calçada.
About the Image
Id: | heic1715a |
Type: | Artwork |
Release date: | 20 September 2017, 19:00 |
Related releases: | heic1715 |
Size: | 5000 x 3125 px |
About the Object
Name: | 288P |
Type: | Solar System : Interplanetary Body : Asteroid |
Category: | Solar System |