Characterization of near earth objects via orbital perturbations: A numerical study

ORAL

Abstract

It is now recognized that near earth objects (NEOs) may pose a collision risk with the earth. Physical characterization of an NEO may help aid in mitigating collision risks. In this work, we report a potential way to characterize an NEO using non-destructive means. Specifically, by measuring the orbit and orbital perturbations of a fly-by space craft, it may be possible to determine the mass, the aspect ratio, and rotational velocity of an NEO. In this work, we preformed numerical simulations of a spacecraft orbiting an NEO. Tests show that we can extract a visible perturbation signal. Ongoing work will explore the possibility of a relationship between the perturbation signal and the shape of the NEO.

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Authors

  • Kevin Boos

    Angelo State University, Texas State University, San Marcos, SEMATECH, Texas State University, University of Texas at Brownsville, Abilene Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Texas at Austin, Maypearl High School, Birdville ISD, South Texas Chapter, Health Physics Society, Sam Houston State University, NASA Johnson Space Center, Dept. of Physics, U. de Buenos Aires, Argentina, Dept.of Physics, ESFM-IPN, Mexico City, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Rutgers University, Texas A\&M University, Istanbul University, University of North Texas, University of Texas at El Paso, Texas Christian University, Lee College, Southern University and A\&M College, Austin Community College, Rapoport Academy, Texas A\&M University, Kingsville, The University of Texas at Arlington, Tyler Junior College, Tarleton State University, Tolar High School, Granbury High School, Lake Highlands High School

  • Kevin Boos

    Angelo State University, Texas State University, San Marcos, SEMATECH, Texas State University, University of Texas at Brownsville, Abilene Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Texas at Austin, Maypearl High School, Birdville ISD, South Texas Chapter, Health Physics Society, Sam Houston State University, NASA Johnson Space Center, Dept. of Physics, U. de Buenos Aires, Argentina, Dept.of Physics, ESFM-IPN, Mexico City, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Rutgers University, Texas A\&M University, Istanbul University, University of North Texas, University of Texas at El Paso, Texas Christian University, Lee College, Southern University and A\&M College, Austin Community College, Rapoport Academy, Texas A\&M University, Kingsville, The University of Texas at Arlington, Tyler Junior College, Tarleton State University, Tolar High School, Granbury High School, Lake Highlands High School