Planetoid

A planetoid is a celestial body that orbits the sun but is smaller than a planet. These often have irregular shapes, and are typically found in the asteroid belt, Kuiper Belt, and scattered disc. Planetoids are composed primarily of rock, ice, and metallic substances. They lack the gravitational dominance to clear their orbital paths of other objects, a key characteristic distinguishing them from planets. The study of planetoids provides valuable insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system, offering clues to the early conditions that led to planetary formation and the distribution of materials in the early solar system. Many planetoids are considered minor planets, with a classification based on their orbit and size. Their designation frequently involves a number and name.

Planetoid meaning with examples

• Astronomers are studying the composition of the planetoid Ceres to better understand the history of water in our solar system. Its ice content suggests it may have once had an ocean. The Dawn spacecraft provided incredibly detailed images of Ceres. Further investigations into Ceres will provide additional insights into the characteristics of the planetoid and its role in the solar system's early evolution.
• The vast majority of planetoids reside within the asteroid belt, a region located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. This area is a rich repository of small, rocky bodies that have been largely unchanged since the formation of the solar system. Studying the orbital paths of planetoids within the belt helps scientists model interactions of the planets.
• Observations of planetoids such as Haumea, which has a highly elongated shape, provide insights into the diverse forms and dynamics of objects found in the Kuiper Belt. This dwarf planetoid is located further from the sun, offering a different perspective on the range of conditions in the outer reaches of the solar system and its interactions with the sun.
• The discovery of new planetoids in the scattered disc, like Eris, has led to reevaluations of the definition of a planet and ultimately, led to the new classification of dwarf planets. These distant planetoids contribute to our understanding of the far-reaching influence of the sun's gravity.