The James Webb Telescope discovers a new asteroid.. Details

The researchers were looking at data collected during Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) calibration when it was pointed at a known asteroid 1998 BC1 – a procedure that failed due to technical issues.

They were hoping they could use this data to test some new technology, but when they went digging, they discovered something unexpected.

A small asteroid about 100 to 200 meters (300 to 650 feet) across happened to pass through the instrument’s field of view at the same time, according to Digitartlends.

“Our results show that even ‘failed’ Webb observations can be scientifically useful, if you have the right mindset and a bit of luck,” said lead author of the research, Thomas Müller, in a statement. “Our discovery lies in the main asteroid belt, but Webb’s incredible sensitivity made it possible This roughly 100-meter long object can be seen at a distance of more than 100 million kilometres.”

Smaller targets, such as asteroids, are harder to detect because they reflect less light.

So it’s exciting that Webb was able to spot this new object, which is believed to be the smallest asteroid Webb has ever seen.

The discovery must be confirmed before the small asteroid can be named, but it could help researchers understand more about the formation of the solar system.

“This is a remarkable result that highlights the capabilities of MIRI to detect coincidences of a previously undetectable size of an asteroid in the main belt,” said Webb support scientist Bryan Holler. .”