Astronomers discover second-fastest asteroid orbiting the Sun

Astronomers discover second-fastest asteroid orbiting the sun (Image: Scott S. Sheppard)

Astronomers discovered a fast asteroid near our Sun recently. It is named 2025 SC79 officially by researchers. It revolves around the Sun in only 128 days. This orbit is extremely quick for a rocky object. It is the second fastest unique asteroid yet known.

Astronomers discovered a fast asteroid near the Sun recently. It has been officially named asteroid 2025 SC79. It completes a full orbit within only 128 days. This is the fastest known asteroid who complete its solar journey quickly.

It travels inside Venus’s orbit completely around the Sun. Sometimes it even dips slightly inside Mercury’s path. Researchers using specialised twilight surveys found the asteroid. These scientists focus on areas hidden by intense sunlight.

It remained unseen because sunlight blinded observing telescopes. The Sun’s glare prevents detection of faint nearby rocks. Asteroids near the star are easily missed during scans. Twilight observations finally exposed its extremely fast motion.

Its size measures nearly 700 metres in total diameter. It is as a tall urban skyscraper. Astronomers believe many similar objects remain still unseen. They might hide dangerously close beside the Sun.

Scientists care because hidden asteroids may threaten Earth unexpectedly. Objects inside bright solar glare are difficult to detect early. Unexpected impacts could happen without clear early warning systems. Therefore, finding such objects becomes scientific responsibility worldwide.

Follow-up observations are required for better understanding soon. The astronomers will study its composition and possible hazardous traits. They also want orbital changes carefully tracked around years. However, it currently hides behind the Sun temporarily. Observations must pause until it reappears in view. Its discovery proves Solar System remains mysterious and surprising.