Charon is the largest moon of Pluto and is classified as a dwarf planet. It was discovered in 1978 by astronomer James Christy and is named after Charon, the ferryman of the dead in Greek mythology, who transported souls across the river Styx to the underworld. Charon has a diameter of about 1,212 kilometers (751 miles), making it approximately half the size of Pluto, and it is characterized by a rocky surface and a relatively low density. The mutual gravitational interaction between Charon and Pluto results in a unique binary system where both bodies orbit a common center of mass that lies outside of Pluto. Charon’s surface features include canyons, possible cryovolcanism, and a dark region dubbed “Mordor.” The moon’s discovery and subsequent studies have provided valuable insights into the characteristics and evolution of the Pluto-Charon system, enhancing our understanding of the outer solar system.
The Origin of Charon: A Cosmic Dance In a fascinating cosmic tale, Charon, Pluto's largest moon, has captivated astronomers for decades. A groundbreaking simulation sheds light on how this celestial…