NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011B-0383
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2011B-0383 |
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PI: Robert S. McMillan, University of Arizona, bob@lpl.arizona.edu
Address: Lunar & Planetary Lab. & Steward Obs., 1629 East University Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85721-0092
CoI: Amy Mainzer, JPL/CalTech
CoI: Jeff Larsen, U. S. Naval Academy
CoI: Jim Scotti, University of Arizona
CoI: Joe Masiero, JPL/CalTech
CoI: James Bauer, JPL/CalTech
CoI: Tommy Grav, Johns Hopkins University
CoI: Chet Maleszewski, University of Arizona
Title: Astrometry and Multicolor Taxonomic Photometry of Asteroids and Comet Candidates Detected by WISE
Abstract: Telescope time is requested to do astrometry and photometry of carefully selected asteroids and suspected comets previously detected by the WISE all-sky thermal infrared (IR) survey. High signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) R-band photometry on a calibrated magnitude scale establishes the albedo near the peak of incident solar flux, which reckons centrally in modeling thermal properties. The combination of the IR fluxes from WISE, astrometry, R magnitudes, and BVRI colors will allow us to refine asteroid orbits and determine albedos, diameters, and approximate taxonomic types. WISE uncovered more solar system objects with dark albedos and more objects with comet-like orbital elements than expected. Albedo-outliers may represent hitherto unexplored populations and may reveal characteristics of the evolution of the solar system not yet recognized. Also, delivery of asteroids from the main belt to Earth- crossing orbits depends on physical properties such as albedo, size, & composition. Measurements will refine understanding of the filtering involved in asteroid transport.
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 > 2011B-0383 |
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