James Webb Space Telescope reveals unique ice composition of asteroid-comet Chiron

The James Webb Space Telescope has found that the centaur 2060 Chiron has a unique mix of ices and gases, distinguishing it from other known centaurs. This discovery reveals new details about its surface composition and behavior. Chiron, which orbits between Jupiter and Neptune, shows signs of comet-like activity as it approaches the sun. The telescope detected carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and methane, indicating that solar heating causes these ices to sublimate and form a gaseous coma. As Chiron moves closer to the sun over the next two decades, it will become brighter and more active. This will allow scientists to study its ices and organic chemistry in greater detail, enhancing understanding of its transformation and the nature of centaurs.