Improving the Detection of Near-Earth Asteroids
Abstract
Recent discoveries of near-Earth asteroids and growing validation of the asteroid theory of dinosaur extinction through mounting geological evidence have made the general public aware of the potential threat that these objects pose. Two recent NASA workshops have been conducted on how to detect potentially threatening celestrial objects and what to do if and when one is detected. Interest in detecting near-Earth asteroids goes beyond concerns of defense of our planet however. These bodies, located outside of the deep gravity wells of planetary systems and large moons are known to contain a variety of elements which could be used as building blocks for future space missions, at a fraction of the cost of Earth launch costs. Given the interest and utility of detecting these objects, the logical question is how to get from the present condition where a few individuals and organizations detect a dozen or so objects each year, to a comprehensive understanding of the locations and characteristics of the asteroid population in near-Earth space. Most importantly what steps can be taken immediately and with modest funding, prior to creating new large networks of asteroid search systems. Prospects for increasing our information significantly with modest funding are good. Modem techniques described within the report, as well as the zealous efforts of several observes, notably Helin and Gehrels, have produced many of the recent asteroid discoveries. For example, over two thirds of the known near-Earth asteroids have been found in the last fifteen years.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA259383
Entities
People
- Gregg E. Maryniak