Difference between revisions of "Charon"
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| − | Charon is the largest natural satellite of [[Pluto]]. It is so large compared to Pluto, that some | + | Charon is the largest natural satellite of [[Pluto]]. It is so large compared to Pluto, that its barycentre lies outside both objects. This is a common definition of a binary object, leading some astronomers to consider them a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Double_planet double dwarf planet]. |
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| + | From the discovery of [[Nix]] and [[Hydra]], it was possible to estimate Charon's mass as roughly 10% that of Pluto. This implies it's approximately 45% ice, thought mostly to be water ice. | ||
{{Nsat-Stub}} | {{Nsat-Stub}} | ||
{{PlutoMoons}} | {{PlutoMoons}} | ||
Revision as of 21:54, 29 August 2006
Charon is the largest natural satellite of Pluto. It is so large compared to Pluto, that its barycentre lies outside both objects. This is a common definition of a binary object, leading some astronomers to consider them a double dwarf planet.
From the discovery of Nix and Hydra, it was possible to estimate Charon's mass as roughly 10% that of Pluto. This implies it's approximately 45% ice, thought mostly to be water ice.
