Ceres (dwarf planet)
Ceres (dwarf planet)
Ceres (/ˈsɪəriːz/ SEER-eez, Minor Planet Designation: 1 Ceres) is the largest object in the asteroid belt that lies between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. With a diameter of 940 km, Ceres is both the largest of the asteroids and the only unambiguous dwarf planet inside Neptune's orbit.
Etymology
The name Ceres is derived from the Roman goddess of agriculture, grain crops, fertility and motherly relationships. It was chosen by the discoverer, Giuseppe Piazzi, who discovered Ceres on January 1, 1801.
Discovery
Ceres was discovered by Giuseppe Piazzi in 1801. It was the first asteroid to be discovered and is considered the largest asteroid in the asteroid belt.
Classification
Ceres is classified as a dwarf planet, a category of celestial bodies that are in direct orbit of the Sun, but are not considered full-fledged planets due to their small size.
Related Terms
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