Astronomers have discovered a bizarre-looking object that came from outside our solar system
Astronomers recently discovered a bizarre-looking object in our solar system that's unlike anything they've ever seen before. It's so peculiar that astronomers think it's not even from our solar system. They've dubbed this mysterious interstellar asteroid "Oumuamua." Following is a transcript of the video.
This asteroid is not from around here. Turns out, it came from another star system. This is the first time humanity has observed an interstellar object.
Astronomers discovered it on Oct. 19. At first, they thought it was a comet. But its orbit was unlike anything ever seen before, and it was traveling at unusually high speeds: 85,700 mph.
So, astronomers reclassified the object as an interstellar asteroid. Asteroids in our solar system are usually round and lumpy. But this object probably looks more like a giant cigar. Observations suggest it's about a quarter mile long. Right now, it's about 124 million miles from Earth.
Over the next 2 years, it will pass by Jupiter and Saturn's orbits. Astronomers predict it will leave our solar system in Jan. 2019. Making its way into deep space toward the constellation Pegasus.
It may be the first interstellar visitor, but the bigger question is: Will it be the last?
- I spent $2,000 for 7 nights in a 179-square-foot room on one of the world's largest cruise ships. Take a look inside my cabin.
- Saudi Arabia wants China to help fund its struggling $500 billion Neom megaproject. Investors may not be too excited.
- Colon cancer rates are rising in young people. If you have two symptoms you should get a colonoscopy, a GI oncologist says.
- Catan adds climate change to the latest edition of the world-famous board game
- Tired of blatant misinformation in the media? This video game can help you and your family fight fake news!
- Tired of blatant misinformation in the media? This video game can help you and your family fight fake news!
- JNK India IPO allotment – How to check allotment, GMP, listing date and more
- Indian Army unveils selfie point at Hombotingla Pass ahead of 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas