NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011A-0046
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011A-0046 |
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PI: Franck Marchis, SETI Institute, fmarchis@seti.org
Address: 515 Whisman N. Rd, Mountain View, CA, 94043, USA
CoI: J. Emilio Enriquez, SETI Institute
CoI: Jerome Berthier, IMCCE
CoI: Pascal Descamps, IMCCE
CoI: Josef Durech, Charles University
CoI: Valery Lainey, IMCCE
CoI: Frederic Vachier, IMCCE
Title: Refining the Mutual Orbits of Known Multiple Asteroid Moonlets
Abstract:
We propose to observe 6 known multiple asteroid systems with Gemini/ALTAIR at
their opposition to refine the mutual orbits of their satellites. We analyzed
and gathered all adaptive optics observations collected over the past 10
years from VLT and Gemini telescopes, plus all Hubble Space Telescope in a
database called VOBAD. From 2003-2007 data, we published a preliminary study
of 12 multiple asteroid systems assuming Keplerian orbits and derived their
mass and average bulk densities. Using a recently developed dynamical model
based on genetic algorithm, we will incorporate these new Gemini/ALTAIR
astrometric positions (4-6 obs per asteroids) to build a consistent orbital
solution for these systems. This large temporal baseline will allow us to
detect non-Keplerian perturbations introduced by resonances, estimate the
mass of the moonlets, the distribution of material in the interior of the
primary bringing the study of these multiple asteroid systems to an exquisite
level of details. This work will help understanding the formation of the
multiple asteroid systems and to a larger extend of our solar system.
Ultimately we will provide ephemeris calculations for these multiple
asteroids which could be used as astrometric calibrator for the next
generation of adaptive optics systems.
National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, Fax: (520) 318-8360
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011A-0046 |
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