16257

16257 is a minor planet in the asteroid belt, located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. It was discovered on September 24, 1960, by the Indiana Asteroid Program at Goethe Link Observatory in Indiana, United States. The asteroid is named after the year of its discovery, 16257.

The orbital period of 16257 is approximately 4.34 years, and its average distance from the Sun is about 2.67 astronomical units (AU). The asteroid has a relatively low eccentricity, indicating a nearly circular orbit. Its absolute magnitude is 14.1, which suggests a diameter of around 4.5 kilometers, assuming an albedo of 0.15.

16257 is classified as a main-belt asteroid, a group of asteroids that orbit the Sun primarily between Mars and Jupiter. It does not exhibit any significant spectral features, which makes its composition uncertain. However, its orbit and physical characteristics are typical of other asteroids in the main belt.

The asteroid's rotation period is approximately 12.4 hours, and its light curve amplitude is 0.15 magnitudes, indicating a relatively spherical shape. The asteroid's surface is likely covered in regolith, a layer of loose, unconsolidated material.

16257 is not a target for any specific space missions, but it is part of ongoing studies of the asteroid belt and the solar system's formation and evolution. Its discovery and characterization contribute to our understanding of the diverse population of minor planets in the solar system.