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2060 Chiron: What Makes This ‘Centaur’ Celestial Body Special

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2060 Chiron

Researchers have examined 2060 Chiron, a celestial body orbiting between Jupiter and Neptune, revealing its unusual surface and gaseous composition. (Image Courtesy: Unsplash)

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Shared Characteristics

It displays characteristics of both asteroids and comets and thus, has been classified as a centaur — a half-man/half-horse being from Greek mythology. (Image Courtesy: Unsplash)

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Surface Gases

Observations conducted using the James Webb Space Telescope have identified CO2 and CO ice on Chiron's surface, alongside methane and carbon dioxide gases in its coma. (Image Courtesy: Unsplash)

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Debris Rings

Chiron's unique properties, including its activity patterns and possible debris rings, make it an exceptional case of centaurs, as per the University of Central Florida. (Image Courtesy: Unsplash)

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Understanding Interplay

Understanding the interplay between Chiron's surface ices and coma gases could reveal thermophysical processes affecting similar celestial bodies. (Image Courtesy: Unsplash)

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Its Journey

Scientists believe that Chiron's journey, influenced by gravitational forces, mirrors processes shaping many small bodies in the solar system. (Image Courtesy: Unsplash)

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