Astronomy scientists An amateur from the state of Minas Gerais has achieved an amazing feat. The group was able to name the asteroid Kurubira, in reference to the mythical creature that protects forests from the predatory actions of poachers and loggers.
Even more impressive is that this has been approved by members of the International Astronomical Union (IAU).
The large mass of space rock was discovered in 2016, when the same amateur professionals were at the Saunière Observatory located in the city of Oliveira (MG).
Thus, under the leadership of Cristóvão Jacques, the site's coordinator, they were able to identify and map this and other celestial bodies which they also called “Saki”.
Unfortunately, the initial idea of using the name “Mula-sem-Cabeça” by another name was rejected, but Jack would suggest “Caipora” as a second option.
Remember that the International Astronomical Union has a rule regarding baptism Asteroids Found in areas close to our planet: They must be named for something related to the folklore of the country of their discoverers, so the alternatives mentioned here were chosen for that reason.
The asteroid “Corobira” is very close to Earth
A road showing the orbit of “Coropera” – Photo: Olhar Digital/Reproduction
Hey asteroid Corupira is very close to us, which means its orbit could change at any time, with there being a remote chance of it colliding with our world.
The mere possibility highlights the importance of discovering and cataloging this type of celestial body, even for the safety of humanity itself.
Last year, the same team of scientists succeeded in naming another important astronomical element “Sassi,” an apparent reference to the friendly Peralta boy who has become a symbol of Brazilian folklore.
The International Astronomical Union also confirms that such asteroids, at this moment, do not pose a danger to Earth. “Saci” will be the closest in 2085; “Coropera” in 2042; And “Kaypora” only in the year 2130.
In a poll conducted among people, “Mula-sem-Cabeça” was the most popular choice as the name of one of the objects discovered.
However, the official organization rejected it due to its origins in mythology, with “Kaypora” being the suggested alternative as an alternative.
It is estimated that the observatory where the enthusiasts work (SONER) has so far identified more than 45 new astronomical objects near Earth.
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