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Today in History: Astronomers Discover Trans-Neptunian Object 208996 Achlys

1/13/2026

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Summary

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On January 13, 2003, astronomers Chad Trujillo and Michael E. Brown discovered the trans-Neptunian object 208996 Achlys at Palomar Observatory in California. Achlys, measuring approximately 940 km in diameter, is the third largest plutino, orbiting the Sun in the Kuiper belt and characterized by its elongated shape and rapid rotation.

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Story summary

On January 13, 2003, astronomers Chad Trujillo and Michael E. Brown discovered the trans-Neptunian object 208996 Achlys at Palomar Observatory in California. Achlys, measuring approximately 940 km in diameter, is the third largest plutino, orbiting the Sun in the Kuiper belt and characterized by its elongated shape and rapid rotation.