Eileen V. Ryan (Magdalena Ridge Observatory, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology), William H. Ryan (Magdalena Ridge Observatory, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology)
Keywords: SSA
Abstract:
To address Space Situational Awareness (SSA) needs, researchers at the Magdalena Ridge Observatory 2.4-meter telescope are investigating various methods to enhance and improve existing capabilities for unique spectral discrimination of resident space objects in low-Earth orbits. As a synergistic compliment to this endeavor, we are working to provide astrometric follow-up and physical characterization (including spectral studies) data of newly discovered near-Earth asteroids and comets in a framework important to planetary defense. One objective is to derive rotation rates for these bodies, and to place the results in context with previous data to enhance our understanding of asteroid impact physics and better address the threat from NEOs having Earth-crossing orbits. Rotation rate can be used to infer internal structure, which is a physical property important to assessing the energy required for object disruption or other forms of hazard mitigation.
Date of Conference: September 13-16, 2011
Track: Poster