Uranus May Have Two Dark Unseen Moons

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Thread starter CygnusX-1
Start date Oct 14, 2016
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Moons Satellites Uranus

In summary, recent observations from the Hubble Space Telescope have revealed changes in the gravitational pull of Uranus, suggesting the presence of two previously unknown moons. Scientists believe these moons were formed from the debris of a collision between two larger moons in Uranus' past. These moons have not been discovered before due to their small size and faintness, and their discovery will provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of Uranus' moon system. Unfortunately, they are unlikely to be visible to the naked eye and can only be observed through powerful telescopes.

Oct 14, 2016

CygnusX-1

And astronomers will be examining Hubble data to try and find them.

Full story at New Scientist

Astronomy news on Phys.org

Oct 16, 2016

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I expect all the gas giants to have some undiscovered moons. 4 and 14 km are tiny.

Oct 16, 2016

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I don't see them in Andy's wonderful pictures.

Related to Uranus May Have Two Dark Unseen Moons

1. What evidence suggests that Uranus may have two dark unseen moons?

Recent observations from the Hubble Space Telescope have revealed changes in the gravitational pull of Uranus, suggesting the presence of two previously unknown moons.

2. How do scientists think these moons formed?

It is believed that the two moons were formed from the debris of a collision between two larger moons in Uranus' past, similar to how our own moon was formed.

3. Why haven't these moons been discovered before?

Uranus' two dark moons are extremely small and faint, making them difficult to detect even with powerful telescopes. Additionally, they are located close to the planet, making them even harder to spot.

4. How will the discovery of these moons impact our understanding of Uranus?

The discovery of these two moons will provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of Uranus' moon system. It may also help us better understand the history and dynamics of the entire solar system.

5. Will we be able to see these moons from Earth?

Unfortunately, due to their small size and distance from Earth, it is unlikely that we will be able to see Uranus' two dark moons with the naked eye. They will most likely only be visible through powerful telescopes.