Patroclus

(617) Patroclus is an asteroid discovered near a Lagrangian point that trails Jupiter in its orbit. It is named after Patroclus, a figure from Greek legend and close friend of Achilles during the Trojan War.12

Trojan asteroids, like Patroclus, are small bodies that share an orbit with a larger planet. They are found at two gravitationally stable points, known as Lagrangian points, which are 60 degrees ahead of and behind the planet in its orbit.1

Patroclus is one of many asteroids named after participants in the Trojan War. Those near Jupiter's leading Lagrangian point are named after Greek warriors, while those near the trailing point are named after Trojan warriors. Patroclus is noted as a Greek warrior whose name is associated with the Trojan camp.12