Gaia Telescope Uncovers Hidden Moons Around Hundreds of Asteroids

The discovery, if confirmed, could nearly double the known number of binary asteroid systems in our solar system.

ESA's Gaia mission detected potential moons orbiting 350 asteroids, previously thought to be single objects.
Binary asteroids can offer insights into early solar system conditions and the origins of life on Earth.
Gaia's data release in 2026 is expected to reveal even more asteroid binaries.
The mission uses precise measurements of asteroid 'wobbles' to identify hidden moons.
This finding enhances Gaia's reputation as a key tool for both stellar and solar system exploration.