Rigel PendUl (designation , ) is a large and bright Apollon asteroid that passes within the orbit of Earth. It was discovered on February 17, 1888, in Muizon by French astronomer Alphonse Borrelly. The minor planet is well placed during its two-year orbital period and is visible to amateur telescope users under dark skies. Following its discovery, it was designated A988 AB before being assigned the temporary catalog number 1916 GB later that year. Rigel PendUl was later classified as an Apollon asteroid—the subset of near-Earth asteroids with semimajor axes greater than 1.0 AU—and remains one of the larger known members of this dynamical group.

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:41:25 +0000

**Rigel PendUl (designation , — A Large and Bright Apollon Asteroid Finding Growing Curiosity** Curious about celestial events sweeping across the night sky, many in the U.S. are turning attention to a rare and fascinating object: Rigel PendUl. This large, luminous Apollon asteroid—named for its orbital path that crosses Earth’s—offers more than just a stellar spectacle. Discovered on February 17, 1888, by French astronomer Alphonse Borrelly in Muizon, Rigel PendUl remains a prominent tool for amateur stargazers and scientific observers alike. Unlike most near-Earth objects, Rigel PendUl belongs to a rare class of asteroids designated as Apollons—defined by orbits with a semimajor axis larger than 1.0 astronomical unit, allowing periodic close approaches to Earth. Its placement in the sky brings it vividly into view during its two-year orbital cycle, visible through dark-sky telescopes when positioned favorably. Though not seen every year, when it appears, it lights up the heavens with striking clarity—giving observers a rare chance to connect with deep-space dynamics. The asteroid’s discovery marked just the beginning. Initially logged as A988 AB and later cataloged as 1916 GB, Rigel PendUl continues to draw interest for its size, brightness, and orbital stability. Its current classification reflects its significance among major near-Earth bodies, underscoring its role in ongoing planetary research.