1082 Pirola is a large carbonaceous asteroid located in the outer regions of the main asteroid belt. It was discovered on October 28, 1927, by German astronomer Karl Reinmuth at the Heidelberg-Königstuhl State Observatory. Upon discovery, it was given the provisional designation 1927 UC.
Classification and Orbit
1082 Pirola is classified as a member of the Themis family, a large group of asteroids that share similar orbital elements and are believed to have originated from the same parent body. It orbits the Sun at a distance of approximately 2.6 to 3.6 astronomical units (AU), completing one full revolution every 5.51 years. The asteroid's orbit has an eccentricity of 0.16 and an inclination of 1.9 degrees relative to the ecliptic.
Physical Characteristics
Based on data from the Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) and the NEOWISE mission, 1082 Pirola has an estimated diameter of approximately 43 kilometers. It is categorized as a C-type asteroid, indicating a composition rich in carbon-based materials. This classification is consistent with its low albedo (reflectivity), measured at approximately 0.06, meaning its surface is very dark. Photometric observations have determined that the asteroid has a rotation period of approximately 15.85 hours.
Etymology
The name "Pirola" is derived from Pyrola, the botanical genus commonly known as wintergreen. This naming follows a convention frequently used by Karl Reinmuth, who named many of his discoveries after various species of plants and flowers.