(709487) 2013 BL76

(709487) 2013 BL76 is a trans-Neptunian object (TNO). Specifically, it is classified as a plutino, meaning it is a minor planet that orbits the Sun in a 2:3 orbital resonance with Neptune. This resonance prevents close approaches to Neptune, thus ensuring its long-term orbital stability.

The designation "(709487)" indicates that this object is numbered, meaning its orbit is well-determined and it has been officially recognized as a minor planet by the Minor Planet Center (MPC). The year "2013" refers to the year of its discovery. The alphanumeric designation "BL76" further specifies the discovery circumstances. The first letter, "B", signifies that it was discovered in the second half of February. The second letter, "L," provides more precise information about the specific two-week period in February. The number "76" indicates that it was the 1900th discovered object in that two-week period (76 * 25 = 1900). Therefore, it was the 1900th minor planet discovered during that designated portion of February 2013.

As a plutino, (709487) 2013 BL76 shares orbital characteristics with Pluto, orbiting the Sun beyond Neptune. While its precise physical characteristics (size, albedo, composition) might not be fully known, observations and analysis contribute to our understanding of the outer Solar System and the population of trans-Neptunian objects. Continued observations and more detailed studies will allow astronomers to better characterize its size, shape, rotation period, and surface properties.