Asteroideja

Asteroideja, often referred to as asteroids, are rocky, airless worlds that orbit our sun but are too small to be called planets. They are often called minor planets. The asteroid belt, where most asteroids are found, is located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. This region is not densely packed with asteroids as depicted in science fiction films; the space between them is vast. However, collisions between asteroids do happen.

Asteroids are thought to be leftover material from the formation of our solar system, about 4.6 billion years ago. They are made of minerals and metals, with some having organic compounds. Scientists study asteroids to learn more about the early solar system and the building blocks of planets.

Most asteroids are found in the main asteroid belt, but some have orbits that bring them closer to Earth. These are called Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs). While most NEAs pose no threat, a few have the potential to impact Earth. NASA and other space agencies monitor these objects to track their orbits and assess any potential risks.

The size of asteroids varies greatly, from just a few meters across to hundreds of kilometers in diameter. Ceres, the largest object in the asteroid belt, is about 940 kilometers in diameter and is classified as a dwarf planet. The majority of asteroids are much smaller. Studying asteroids can also provide insights into potential resources, such as water and minerals, that could be valuable for future space exploration and resource utilization.