14491

14491 is an asteroid designated with the numerical identifier assigned by the Minor Planet Center, indicating it is a numbered minor planet. It was discovered on December 5, 1978, by astronomers at the Palomar Observatory in California. The asteroid is classified as a main-belt object, meaning it orbits the Sun within the asteroid belt located between Mars and Jupiter.

The asteroid has an estimated diameter of approximately 4 to 7 kilometers, though precise measurements can vary due to observational uncertainties. Its surface composition and albedo suggest it may be a carbonaceous or silicate-rich asteroid, typical of many objects within the main belt.

Orbital calculations show that 14491 follows a semi-major axis of around 2.4 astronomical units (AU), with an orbital period of roughly 3.7 years. It exhibits an eccentricity of about 0.1 to 0.2, indicating a slightly elongated orbit, and an inclination of approximately 5 degrees relative to the ecliptic plane. These orbital parameters align with many other main-belt asteroids, contributing to the understanding of the belt's dynamical structure.

As of current knowledge, 14491 does not pose any known threat to Earth and has not been a target for space missions. It is primarily observed and studied through telescopic surveys to improve understanding of asteroid populations, compositions, and orbital dynamics within the asteroid belt.

Further research continues to refine its physical and orbital characteristics, contributing to broader planetary science and asteroid risk assessment efforts.