Astronomy

The Phaethon asteroid has been a source of intrigue for astronomers for its unusual characteristics and mysterious sodium gas tail. Recent NASA research has revealed that the asteroid is even weirder than previously thought, as it acts like a comet and its tail is made of sodium gas instead of dust. This discovery has led scientists to question whether other so-called “comets” may actually be rocky asteroids heated by the sun. Phaethon is also the source of the annual Geminid meteor shower, and experts are now trying to understand how its sodium gas tail provides material for the shower each December. An upcoming Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency mission is expected to shed more light on Phaethon’s secrets. Despite its potential hazards, NASA’s continued study of Phaethon is proving to be a fascinating avenue of research for astronomers.