description 21 Lutetia Overview
Asteroid 21 Lutetia is a medium-sized rocky body residing within the main asteroid belt. Discovered in 1852 by Hermann Goldschmidt, it’s notable as an M-type asteroid—characterized by reddish hues and water-rich compositions. The Rosetta spacecraft conducted a detailed flyby of 21 Lutetia in July 2010, providing valuable data about its surface features and composition. This information is particularly relevant for planetary scientists studying the formation and evolution of the inner solar system.
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Which spacecraft famously conducted a detailed flyby of Asteroid 21 Lutetia?
The European Space Agency's Rosetta spacecraft completed a detailed flyby of 21 Lutetia in July 2010. Rosetta passed within 3,162 kilometers of the asteroid, capturing high-resolution images of its heavily cratered surface.
Who discovered Asteroid 21 Lutetia and when?
The asteroid was discovered on November 15, 1852, by the French painter and amateur astronomer Hermann Goldschmidt. He observed it from his balcony in Paris, leading to its name (Lutetia was the Roman name for Paris).
What type of asteroid classification does 21 Lutetia fall under?
Lutetia is classified as an M-type asteroid, which is typically associated with a metallic, nickel-iron composition. However, Rosetta's data revealed surface properties more similar to primitive carbonaceous chondrite meteorites, making it an anomaly.
How large is the main asteroid belt object 21 Lutetia?
Lutetia is a relatively large asteroid, measuring approximately 100 kilometers in diameter and 121 kilometers along its longest axis. Its massive size and heavy cratering indicate it is likely a pristine planetesimal survivor from the early solar system.
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