description 5 Astraea Overview
5 Astraea is the fifth asteroid discovered and one of the earliest known minor planets. Karl Ludwig Hencke discovered it in 1845, decades after the discovery of Vesta and after a long period with no new asteroid discoveries. It orbits in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter and is classified as an S-type asteroid. Its name refers to Astraea, a figure from Greek mythology associated with justice.
help 5 Astraea FAQ
Who discovered asteroid 5 Astraea?
German astronomer Karl Ludwig Hencke discovered 5 Astraea in 1845. Its discovery ended a long period without a newly identified asteroid.
Why is 5 Astraea historically important?
5 Astraea was the fifth asteroid discovered and one of the earliest known minor planets. Its discovery followed the earlier discoveries of Ceres, Pallas, Juno, and Vesta.
Where does 5 Astraea orbit?
5 Astraea travels in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. Like other main-belt asteroids, it follows a solar orbit rather than being a planet or comet.
What does the number 5 mean in 5 Astraea?
The number records its position among the asteroids that received permanent numbered designations. Astraea was the fifth asteroid recognized in the historical sequence of discoveries.
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