description 172 Baucis Overview
172 Baucis is a numbered asteroid in the main asteroid belt, the region of small rocky bodies orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter. It was discovered by Alphonse Borrelly in 1877 and was named after Baucis, a figure from Ovid's Metamorphoses. In that story, Baucis and her husband Philemon are transformed into trees after showing hospitality to disguised gods. The asteroid's name therefore comes from classical mythology rather than from a physical characteristic or a modern person.
help 172 Baucis FAQ
What is 172 Baucis?
172 Baucis is a numbered asteroid in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. It was discovered by Alphonse Borrelly in 1877.
Why is asteroid 172 Baucis named Baucis?
The name refers to Baucis, a figure from Ovid's Metamorphoses. In the story, Baucis and her husband Philemon show hospitality to disguised gods.
Where does 172 Baucis orbit?
It orbits in the main asteroid belt, the broad population of small rocky bodies between Mars and Jupiter. Like other numbered asteroids, its path is tracked through repeated astronomical observations.
Who discovered 172 Baucis?
Alphonse Borrelly discovered 172 Baucis in 1877. The asteroid's number reflects its place in the sequence of minor planets that received official designations.
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