Key facts
- A small Kuiper Belt object, 2002 XV93, may possess a surrounding atmosphere.
- The object is approximately 470 kilometers wide.
- Scientists are surprised because its weak gravity should prevent it from retaining gases.
- Potential explanations include a recent collision or icy volcanic activity.
- Further observations are needed to confirm the atmosphere's composition and origin.
Astronomers studying distant worlds beyond Neptune have been surprised by the potential discovery of an atmosphere around the Kuiper Belt object 2002 XV93. The object, approximately 470 kilometers wide, is considered too small to maintain a stable atmosphere due to its extremely weak gravity. Scientists expected any gases to have escaped into space long ago.
The finding occurred when researchers observed 2002 XV93 passing in front of a distant star, an event that allowed for study of its surroundings from Earth. Instead of simply blocking the starlight, the object appeared to reveal signs of surrounding material.
This discovery raises questions about the origin of the potential atmosphere. One possibility is a recent collision with another icy object, which could have released trapped gases from beneath the surface, creating a temporary cloud. Another explanation involves icy volcanoes, which could continuously push frozen materials, vapors, and gases outward, refreshing the environment around the object.