What is the largest object discovered in the Solar System since Pluto?

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SUMMARY

The largest object discovered in the Solar System since Pluto is tentatively named 2004 DW, identified by a sky survey conducted by researchers at Caltech. This celestial body, located beyond Neptune in the Kuiper Belt, has a diameter of 1650 km, surpassing Quaoar, which measures 1250 km. The discovery was announced on February 20, 2004, following initial observations that revealed its size and orbit.

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  • Understanding of the Kuiper Belt and its significance in planetary formation
  • Familiarity with celestial object classification and measurement techniques
  • Knowledge of astronomical survey methods and tools
  • Basic comprehension of the historical context of Solar System discoveries
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  • Research the characteristics and significance of the Kuiper Belt
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Astronomers, astrophysicists, and space enthusiasts interested in the latest discoveries in the Solar System and the dynamics of celestial bodies beyond Neptune.

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http://www.newscientist.com/news/news.jsp?id=ns99994702 The World's No.1 Science & Technology News Service



Largest Solar System body spotted since Pluto


11:53 20 February 04

NewScientist.com news service

"The largest object to be discovered in the Solar System since Pluto was found in 1930 was spotted by a sky survey on Tuesday.

News of the hulking object leaked out on Thursday before the researchers at Caltech could pin down the giant's size and orbit.

Tentatively called 2004 DW, the object lies beyond Neptune in the mysterious Kuiper Belt. This shadowy belt is a collection of primordial icy bodies which circle our Sun and are thought to be the remnants of planetary formation."

2004 DW has a diameter of 1650 km. Quaoar has a diameter of 1250 km
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
ah, you beat me to it!

still...a great discovery!

here's CNN's tidbit...
http://www.cnn.com/2004/TECH/space/02/20/ice.world.ap/index.html

and Space.com...
http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/new_object_040219.html
 
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