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In June, astronomers studied the near-Earth asteroid 2017 YE5, which eventually turned out to be two asteroids that revolved around an asteroid
PHOTOS: depo.ua
Small asteroids found with the help of three radio telescopes, reports Depo.ua with reference to Naked Science.
They emit radio waves to the nearest asteroids and wait for a signal to be displayed. Astronomers can use the signals received to understand the shape of an asteroid.
In the case of 2017, YE5 scientists discovered that what they appeared to be two particles of an asteroid was actually two separate bodies performing a revolution every 20 to 24 hours
This is a really interesting discovery, since both sides of the asteroid are almost identical in size – about 900 meters in diameter. Until now, scientists have managed to detect only three other "ideal" pairs. Most double asteroids differ in size, where one darkens the other half.
New observations in 2017 YE5 revealed another surprising feature of the asteroid: the stones are not identical. One of its halves seems much darker than the other. This can mean that they differ in composition or texture.
However, it may take a long time before scientists can reveal the secrets of this pair. New observations have been made on the maximum approach of the asteroid to Earth, when it flew at a distance of about six million kilometers from us. The next convergence will take place over 170 years.
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