NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope and the W.M. Keck Observatory have identified a potential three-body system in the Kuiper Belt called Altjira, marking the second such discovery in the region. This finding suggests more triple systems may exist, challenging traditional collision theories by indicating they form directly from gravitational collapse. Located 3.7 billion miles away Altjira has two icy bodies, one possibly a binary pair, supported by 17 years of observations.
Hubble Discovers Potential Three-Body System in Kuiper Belt
The Hubble Space Telescope has identified a potential three-body system within the Kuiper Belt known as Altjira. This discovery challenges conventional theories regarding the formation of such systems, suggesting that they may form through gravitational collapse rather than accumulation from collisions. The findings are based on extensive observations spanning 17 years, utilizing data from both the Hubble Space Telescope and the Keck Observatory.
Altjira is significantly larger than Arrokoth, another Kuiper Belt object explored by NASA’s New Horizons mission, with a width of approximately 124 miles (200 kilometers). While no missions are currently planned to visit Altjira, scientists anticipate opportunities for further study over the next decade. During this period, the outer body of the system will pass in front of the central one, creating an eclipsing season that offers a unique opportunity for detailed observations.
The discovery of Altjira has significant implications for understanding how triple systems form. Traditional theories have often focused on collisional accumulation as the primary mechanism, but this system’s characteristics suggest that gravitational collapse may play a more prominent role. This new perspective could reshape our understanding of the dynamics and evolution of multi-body systems in the outer solar system.
The James Webb Space Telescope is expected to contribute significantly to the study of Altjira during its Cycle 3 observations. By providing detailed insights into the system’s composition and structure, JWST will enable scientists to refine further their theories about the formation and evolution of triple systems in the Kuiper Belt.
This research underscores the enduring contributions of the Hubble Space Telescope to our understanding of the universe and highlights the importance of continued investment in space exploration initiatives.
More information
External Link: Click Here For More
