Minor planets, asteroids, comets and interplanetary dust within 30 au

TL;DR

This paper reviews the small bodies within 30 astronomical units of the Sun, including asteroids, comets, and dust, highlighting their origins, evolution, and significance in understanding planetary formation.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the formation, evolution, and interrelations of small Solar System bodies within 30 au, emphasizing their scientific importance.

Findings

Small bodies are relics from Solar System formation.

Their study offers insights into planetary origins.

Small bodies include asteroids, comets, and dust particles.

Abstract

Our Solar System includes the Sun, eight major planets and their moons, along with numerous asteroids, comets, and dust particles, collectively known as the small Solar System bodies. Small bodies are relics from the birth of the Solar System and offer valuable insights into planetary formation and the origins of life. This chapter explores this important component of our Solar System, discussing the formation and evolution of key small body populations and their interrelations.