Beyond Jupiter - (50000) Quaoar
Abstract
Quaoar is one of the largest trans-Neptunian objects (TNO) we know so far and could be classified as a dwarf planet in the future. Spectroscopic studies reveal that Quaoar is a very intriguing object which might have retained a tenuous atmosphere. Quaoar is also discussed as a possible target for proposed space missions intending to explore the heliosphere. This paper summarizes some current knowledge about Quaoar and its moon Weywot. Predictions of stellar occultations for the time span 2020-2022 are presented as well.
- Publication:
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Journal for Occultation Astronomy
- Pub Date:
- January 2020
- Bibcode:
- 2020JOA....10a..24K