28978 Ixion

Alternative name: Also known as: 2001 KX76

Asteroid
Dimensions:756.9x684.9
28978 Ixion Radius

Radius of 28978 Ixion

The radius of 28978 Ixion is one of its most fundamental physical characteristics. The 28978 Ixion radius measures approximately 379.5 km, making it 16.79× smaller than Earth. This measurement represents the average distance from the center of 28978 Ixion to its surface, providing crucial information about the celestial body's size and volume.

Understanding the 28978 Ixion radius is essential for calculating other important properties such as surface area, volume, and gravitational characteristics. The radius directly influences how we perceive and study this fascinating object in our Solar System.

28978 Ixion Semi-Major Axis

Orbital Radius of 28978 Ixion

The 28978 Ixion semi-major axis is a critical orbital parameter that defines the average distance from the Sun. The 28978 Ixion semi-major axis measures 39.51 AU (approximately 5.91e+9 km), which represents the average orbital radius of 28978 Ixion. This measurement is fundamental to understanding 28978 Ixion's position in the Solar System and its relationship with other celestial bodies.

The orbital radius of 28978 Ixion determines how much solar radiation the planet receives, which directly influences its temperature, climate, and overall environmental conditions. This distance places 28978 Ixion in a specific region of the Solar System, each with unique characteristics and scientific significance.

When we examine the 28978 Ixion semi-major axis 39.51 AU, we gain insights into the planet's orbital mechanics, including its orbital period, velocity, and the gravitational forces at play. This parameter is essential for space mission planning and understanding the dynamics of our Solar System.

28978 Ixion Mass

Mass of 28978 Ixion in kg

The 28978 Ixion mass is a fundamental property that determines many of the planet's physical characteristics. The mass of 28978 Ixion in kg is approximately 2.30e+20 kg, which is 25965.22× less than Earth's mass. This substantial mass creates a significant gravitational field that influences everything from atmospheric retention to orbital dynamics.

Understanding the 28978 Ixion mass allows scientists to calculate other critical properties such as surface gravity, escape velocity, and the planet's ability to retain an atmosphere. The mass also plays a crucial role in determining how 28978 Ixion interacts with other celestial bodies through gravitational forces.

The precise measurement of the mass of 28978 Ixion in kg is essential for space exploration missions, as it affects spacecraft trajectories, landing procedures, and the design of scientific instruments. This fundamental property helps us understand28978 Ixion's formation history and its place in the evolution of our Solar System.

28978 Ixion Orbital Period

How Long is a Year on 28978 Ixion?

The 28978 Ixion orbital period defines the length of one complete revolution around the Sun. The 28978 Ixion orbital period is 1.05 days, which is 347.87× shorter than Earth's year. This orbital period determines the length of 28978 Ixion's year and directly influences seasonal patterns, climate cycles, and temperature variations.

The 28978 Ixion orbital period is directly related to its distance from the Sun, following Kepler's laws of planetary motion. Planets farther from the Sun have longer orbital periods, while those closer complete their orbits more quickly. This relationship helps explain why 28978 Ixion takes the time it does to complete one full orbit.

Understanding the 28978 Ixion orbital period is crucial for space mission planning, as it affects launch windows, travel times, and the timing of scientific observations. This fundamental orbital parameter also provides insights into the planet's formation history and its current position in the Solar System's dynamic structure.

How Far is 28978 Ixion from Earth?

Distance Between 28978 Ixion and Earth

How far is 28978 Ixion from Earth? This is a question that fascinates both astronomers and space enthusiasts. The distance between 28978 Ixion and Earth varies throughout their orbital cycles, but on average, 28978 Ixion is approximately 5.76e+9 km(38.512 AU) away from Earth. This distance changes as both planets orbit the Sun, with the closest approach (opposition) and farthest separation (conjunction) creating significant variations.

The question "How far is 28978 Ixion from Earth?" has practical implications for space exploration. This distance determines travel time for spacecraft, communication delays for mission control, and the amount of fuel required for interplanetary missions. Understanding this distance is essential for planning future missions to 28978 Ixion.

The distance between 28978 Ixion and Earth is not constant due to the elliptical nature of both planets' orbits. When 28978 Ixion and Earth are on the same side of the Sun (opposition), they are at their closest, making this the optimal time for observations and potential missions. Conversely, when they are on opposite sides of the Sun (conjunction), they are at their farthest separation, which can exceed the average distance significantly.

Physical Properties
Mean Radius
379.5km
Equatorial Radius
379.5km
Polar Radius
0km
Mass
2.30e+20 kg
Volume
0.00e+0 km³
Density
1g/cm³
Gravity
0m/s²
Escape Velocity
0m/s
Flattening
0
Average Temperature
0.0 K (-273.1 °C)
Axial Tilt
0°
Semimajor Axis
5.91e+9km
Perihelion
4.48e+9km
Aphelion
7.34e+9km
Eccentricity
0.241
Inclination
19.621°
Sidereal Orbit
1.05 days
Sidereal Rotation
0 seconds
Mean Anomaly
0°
Argument of Periapsis
0°
Longitude of Ascending Node
0°

Overview of 28978 Ixion

28978 Ixion is a fascinating asteroid in our Solar System that has captured the attention of astronomers and space enthusiasts alike. With a 28978 Ixion radius of 379.5 km, making it 16.8× smaller than Earth's size, this celestial body presents unique characteristics that distinguish it from other objects in our cosmic neighborhood. Positioned at an average distance of 5.91e+9 km (39.512 AU) from the Sun, 28978 Ixion occupies a significant place in the Solar System's architecture. As an asteroid, 28978 Ixion represents the remnants of the early Solar System, providing valuable insights into the formation and evolution of our cosmic neighborhood.

Physical Characteristics

The 28978 Ixion physical characteristics reveal a world of remarkable dimensions and properties. The 28978 Ixion radius measures 379.5 km, making it 16.8× smaller than Earth's size. The 28978 Ixion mass of 2.30e+20 kg represents 25965.2× smaller than Earth's mass, giving this world substantial gravitational influence.

Orbital Properties

The 28978 Ixion orbit reveals fascinating details about its journey around the Sun and its relationship to other Solar System objects. The 28978 Ixion orbit has a semimajor axis of 5.91e+9 km (39.512 AU), placing it 39.5× Earth's distance from the Sun. At its closest approach (perihelion), 28978 Ixion comes within 4.48e+9 km of the Sun, while at its farthest point (aphelion), it reaches 7.34e+9 km, creating a 48.3% variation in solar distance. The 28978 Ixion orbit is moderately elliptical with an eccentricity of 0.241 (14.4× Earth's orbital eccentricity), creating noticeable seasonal variations in solar radiation. The 28978 Ixion orbit takes 1.05 days to complete (347.9× smaller than Earth's orbital period), defining the length of its year. The orbital inclination of 19.621° indicates how much the 28978 Ixion orbit is tilted relative to the Solar System's ecliptic plane. This moderate inclination indicates a typical orbital evolution for objects in this region of the Solar System.

Rotation and Tilt

The 28978 Ixion rotation and axial orientation provide crucial insights into its daily and seasonal cycles, as well as its orbital dynamics. The 28978 Ixion axial tilt of 0° determines the intensity and nature of seasonal variations. With minimal axial tilt, 28978 Ixion experiences virtually no seasonal changes, maintaining relatively constant temperatures throughout its year. The orbital orientation parameters reveal additional details about 28978 Ixion's position in space. The mean anomaly of indicates the planet's current position in its orbit relative to its perihelion. The argument of periapsis of shows how the orbit's orientation changes over time due to gravitational perturbations. The longitude of ascending node of defines the reference point where the orbit crosses the ecliptic plane.

Temperature and Atmosphere

The 28978 Ixion temperature and atmospheric conditions are fundamental to understanding its habitability and environmental characteristics. The 28978 Ixion average temperature of 0.0 K (-273.1 °C) (-459.7°F) provides the baseline for understanding its climate. These extremely cold temperatures make 28978 Ixion inhospitable to life as we know it, with any atmosphere likely frozen solid on the surface. Compared to Earth's average temperature of 15°C (59°F), 28978 Ixion presents a dramatically different thermal environment. Being farther from the Sun than Earth, 28978 Ixion receives less solar radiation, resulting in cooler conditions. The elliptical orbit creates significant temperature variations throughout the year, with extreme seasonal changes.

Escape Velocity & Flattening

The 28978 Ixion escape velocity and shape characteristics reveal important details about its gravitational field and rotational dynamics. The 28978 Ixion escape velocity of 0 m/s determines how easily objects can break free from its gravitational pull. This relatively low escape velocity means that gases and light molecules can easily escape into space, making it difficult for 28978 Ixion to retain a substantial atmosphere. The 28978 Ixion flattening of 0.0000% indicates how much the planet's rotation affects its shape. This minimal flattening suggests a nearly spherical shape, indicating either slow rotation or a very rigid internal structure.

FAQs About 28978 Ixion

How big is 28978 Ixion compared to Earth?

28978 Ixion has a radius of 379.5 km, making it 16.8× smaller than Earth's size. In terms of volume, 28978 Ixion is 0.0× the size of Earth. This size difference significantly impacts the planet's gravity, atmospheric retention, geological processes, and overall planetary characteristics.

How far is 28978 Ixion from the Sun?

28978 Ixion orbits at an average distance of 5.91e+9 km (39.512 AU) from the Sun, placing it 39.5× Earth's distance from the Sun. This distance determines the amount of solar radiation the planet receives and significantly influences its temperature and climate.

How long is a year on 28978 Ixion?

A year on 28978 Ixion lasts 1.05 days (347.9× smaller than Earth's orbital period). This orbital period defines the length of the planet's year and affects seasonal patterns, temperature variations, and the overall climate cycle.

What is 28978 Ixion made of?

28978 Ixion has a density of 1 g/cm³ (5.5× smaller than Earth's density). This density provides important clues about the planet's internal composition. The low density indicates a composition dominated by lighter elements, characteristic of gas giants or icy bodies.

Does 28978 Ixion have seasons?

28978 Ixion has an axial tilt of . With minimal axial tilt, the planet experiences virtually no seasonal changes, maintaining relatively constant temperatures throughout its year.
Discovery Information
Discovered By
Deep Ecliptic Survey
Discovery Date
22/05/2001
Raw Data