Figure 9-11 The Kirkwood Gaps This graph displays the number of asteroids at various distances from the Sun. Note that few asteroids have orbital periods that correspond to such simple fractions as 1/3, 2/5, 3/7, and 1/2 of Jupiter’s orbital period. Resonant orbits with Jupiter have deflected asteroids away from these orbits. The Trojan asteroids accompany Jupiter as it orbits the Sun.