Artist’s depiction of 2025 MN45, the fastest known rotating asteroid exceeding 500 metres in diameter, as identified by scientists. (Image:  NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory/NOIRLab/SLAC/AURA/P. Marenfeld)
Science
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Moneycontrol24-01-2026, 09:43

World's Biggest Camera Spots Fastest-Spinning Giant Asteroid, Rewriting Theories

  • The Rubin Observatory's new digital camera, the largest ever built, has identified an unusually fast-spinning asteroid.
  • Among thousands of new asteroid discoveries, 19 were found rotating far faster than expected, challenging existing theories.
  • One object, 2025 MN45, measuring 710 meters across, spins every 1.88 minutes, suggesting it's solid rock, not a rubble pile.
  • This discovery, led by astronomer Sarah Greenstreet, provides fresh clues about asteroid strength, origins, and internal makeup.
  • The findings from the Chilean observatory are expected to reshape asteroid science and deepen understanding of Solar System history.

Why It Matters: The Rubin Observatory's new camera found a giant, rapidly spinning asteroid, challenging existing theories on asteroid composition.

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