46502

46502 is a designation used in various contexts, most notably within the field of astronomy and space exploration. It refers to an asteroid, officially named **2001 CB21**, discovered on February 1, 2001, by the Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Research (LINEAR) program. This near-Earth object (NEO) belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids, which are characterized by orbits that cross Earth's path.

The asteroid has an estimated diameter of approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) and orbits the Sun with a period of about 1.3 years. Its orbit brings it relatively close to Earth, though it is not considered a significant impact threat. Observations and tracking of 46502 are conducted by organizations such as NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) to monitor its trajectory and assess any potential future close approaches.

Beyond astronomy, the number 46502 may also appear in other contexts, such as identification codes in databases, serial numbers, or as a reference in technical documentation. However, its most recognized use remains in the classification of this specific asteroid. Researchers continue to study objects like 46502 to better understand the dynamics of near-Earth objects and improve planetary defense strategies.