10199 Chariklo - Size

Size

If one knows the absolute magnitude (H) and the albedo of an object, one can estimate the size. But since centaurs are icy comet-like bodies that may outgas, it is very difficult to estimate their albedos. It is also likely that the albedos of some centaurs vary with time and activity levels.

With an absolute magnitude (H) of 6.4 and an albedo of 0.06, Chariklo is currently the largest known centaur with an estimated diameter of 258 km. 2060 Chiron (230 km / H=6.5 / albedo=0.07) is likely a close second. The lost centaur 1995 SN55 (H=6.0) may even be larger, with an estimated diameter very close to 300 km.

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