173077

173077 is a minor planet designated within the asteroid belt, a region of space located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter that contains numerous small celestial bodies. It was discovered on August 7, 2000, by the Lincoln Laboratory Near-Earth Asteroid Research (LINEAR) project, using automated telescopes designed for detecting near-Earth objects.

This asteroid has an estimated diameter of approximately 1 to 3 kilometers, although precise measurements vary based on observational data and assumptions about its albedo (reflectivity). Its orbital characteristics place it in the main asteroid belt, with an orbit that is relatively stable over extended periods, typical of many main-belt asteroids.

173077 belongs to the category of carbonaceous or stony asteroids, which are composed primarily of silicate minerals and carbon compounds. These spectral classifications provide insights into the composition and origin of the object, contributing to broader scientific understanding of the early solar system.

The asteroid's orbit has a semi-major axis of about 2.5 astronomical units (AU) from the Sun, with an orbital period roughly between 3.9 and 4.2 years. Its orbit exhibits moderate eccentricity, meaning it is slightly elongated rather than perfectly circular.

Many minor planets like 173077 are subjects of ongoing observation and study to better understand their physical properties, orbital dynamics, and potential hazards. While no specific mission targets 173077, it is part of the broader catalog of main-belt objects contributing to planetary defense research and planetary science.

As of now, 173077 has no known additional significance beyond its classification and tracking as a main-belt asteroid.