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Picture Courtesy: Indian Express

Context:

Daksh Malik from Noida has earned NASA recognition for discovering an asteroid through the International Asteroid Discovery Project, and now has the chance to name it.

Daksh Malik and his asteroid discovery

Daksh Malik is a 14-year-old Class 9 student from Shiv Nadar School in Noida, India. He recently earned provisional recognition from NASA for discovering an asteroid.

He discovered an asteroid currently labeled as ‘2023 OG40.’ Once NASA verifies the discovery, he will have the privilege of naming it.

He participated in the International Asteroid Discovery Project (IADP), a NASA-affiliated citizen science initiative.

He analyzed datasets using Astronomica software, looking for celestial objects with asteroid-like movement and light emissions.

About the International Asteroid Discovery Project (IADP)

It is a citizen science program that allows students and enthusiasts worldwide to analyze NASA telescope data and search for potential asteroids, practically giving them the opportunity to discover new celestial bodies by participating in real astronomical research.

It is conducted in collaboration with the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC) and provides a platform for people to get involved in space exploration and astronomy, with the potential to even name discovered asteroids if verified by NASA.

Over 6,000 people participate in the IADP annually, but only a few discover new asteroids. Before Daksh, only five other Indian students had achieved this feat.

About asteroids

Asteroids are small, rocky objects that orbit the Sun. They are remnants from the early solar system and are largely found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

Characteristics of asteroids

Size and Shape: Asteroids range from tiny pebbles to objects about 1,000 kilometers in diameter. They often have irregular shapes due to their small size and weak gravity.
Composition: Asteroids are made of rock and metal. They are classified into three types:
- - C-type (Carbonaceous): Rich in carbon, making up 75% of known asteroids.
  - S-type (Silicaceous): Made of silicate materials and nickel-iron.
  - M-type (Metallic): Composed mainly of metallic iron and nickel.

About Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs)

NEAs are asteroids whose orbits bring them close to Earth. Scientists monitor them to assess potential collision risks and develop planetary defense strategies.