Orpington Astronomical Society

Astronomy => In the Media... => Topic started by: Rick on May 30, 2008, 17:46:14

Title: Record spin for newfound asteroid
Post by: Rick on May 30, 2008, 17:46:14
The fastest spinning natural object in the Solar System has been discovered by a British amateur astronomer.

The compact stony asteroid 2008 HJ - completes a full rotation once every 42.7 seconds, according to its discoverer Richard Miles.

That measurement smashes the previous record held by the asteroid 2000 DO8, which spins once every 78 seconds.

More: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7426755.stm