266318

266318 is the designation for a minor planet, specifically an asteroid, located within the asteroid belt. It was discovered on January 26, 2004, by astronomers participating in the Catalina Sky Survey. The Catalina Sky Survey is an astronomical survey program that systematically surveys the sky for near-Earth objects and other celestial bodies.

As a minor planet, 266318 orbits the Sun in a predictable path. Its exact orbital characteristics, such as its semi-major axis, eccentricity, and inclination, are determined by observations and calculations made by astronomers. These parameters help define its trajectory and its position relative to other objects in the solar system.

The designation 266318 follows the standard naming convention for minor planets, where objects are assigned a number sequentially as they are discovered and confirmed. This numbering system, managed by the Minor Planet Center, allows for unambiguous identification of these celestial bodies. While most minor planets do not receive formal names unless they are particularly significant or have special characteristics, they are consistently identified by their numerical designations. Further research and telescopic observations are ongoing to learn more about the physical properties of 266318, such as its size, composition, and rotation period.