Minor planets are celestial objects that are not classified as planets or comets. They are typically smaller than planets, ranging in size from a few meters to several hundred kilometers in diameter. Minor planets include asteroids, which are rocky and metallic objects that orbit the Sun, and trans-Neptunian objects, which are objects that orbit beyond Neptune in the outer solar system. Research on minor planets includes studying their orbits, compositions, and physical characteristics. This research helps scientists better understand the formation and evolution of the solar system. Minor planets are also of interest to astronomers because they can provide insights into the early history of the solar system and the processes that shaped its formation.