rubble-pile
This term is primarily used in planetary science and astrophysics to describe the internal structure of small solar system bodies. It conveys a sense of fragility and instability, contrasting with monolithic bodies that are single, solid pieces of rock. The term suggests a "gravel-like" composition where the body is essentially a heap of debris.
In a technical context, the term implies that the object has a high porosity and is held together by extremely weak gravitational forces. This distinction is critical for mission planning, as landing on a rubble-pile asteroid is significantly different from landing on a solid surface, often resembling landing on a pile of loose scree.
Meanings
A celestial body, typically an asteroid or comet, that is composed of a collection of irregularly shaped fragments and boulders held together loosely by gravity rather than being a single solid monolithic rock.
The asteroid Bennu is classified as a rubble-pile, consisting of various boulders and dust.