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Chiron's Evolving Rings Revealed in Stunning Observations

11/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On September 10, 2023, a stellar occultation observed from 31 sites in South America revealed the evolving ring system of the centaur Chiron.
Chiron measures about 210 kilometers (130 miles) in diameter, and data reveal three narrow rings at 273, 325, and 438 kilometers from Chiron.
A broader disk spans 200 to 800 kilometers, and gravity is thought to govern the rings, indicating a transitional stage.

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Story summary

On September 10, 2023, a stellar occultation observed from 31 sites in South America revealed the evolving ring system of the centaur Chiron.
Chiron measures about 210 kilometers (130 miles) in diameter, and data reveal three narrow rings at 273, 325, and 438 kilometers from Chiron.
A broader disk spans 200 to 800 kilometers, and gravity is thought to govern the rings, indicating a transitional stage.