The Digital Press

Researchers analyzed 144 Trans-Neptunian Objects (TNOs) and Centaurs from the Dark Energy Survey, classifying them into four taxonomic groups and estimating their sizes. They explored relationships between color, orbit, and size, revealing new insights into these distant solar system objects.

Why it matters: Provides the first taxonomic classification for many TNOs, enriching understanding of distant solar system populations.

The big picture: Correlating colors, orbits, and sizes helps uncover evolutionary and compositional trends among outer solar system bodies.

Stunning stat: The largest reddest object identified measures approximately 390 km in diameter, with a large cold classical at 255 km.

Quick takeaway: Weak correlations emerge between color and orbital inclination in resonant TNOs, indicating subtle compositional or dynamical links.