NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2013A-0465
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2013A-0465 |
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PI: Henry Hsieh, University of Hawaii, hsieh@ifa.hawaii.edu
Address: Institute for Astronomy, 2680 Woodlawn Drive, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822, United States
CoI: Heather Kaluna, University of Hawaii
CoI: Karen Meech, University of Hawaii
Title: Nucleus Characterization of Main-Belt Comet P/La Sagra
Abstract:
We seek SOAR time to physically characterize the nucleus of main-
belt comet (MBC) P/2010 R2 (La Sagra). Our primary objectives include
determination of P/La Sagra's rotation period, shape, and colors. MBCs
are intriguing objects that exhibit cometary activity yet are
dynamically indistinguishable from main-belt asteroids. Studying these
apparently icy objects so close to the Sun is important for
understanding the distribution of volatile material in our solar system
as well as the origin of Earth's water. Six MBCs are currently known,
where four have at least partially-characterized nuclei, while the
others (including P/La Sagra) have yet to be studied in detail. With so
little known about this population, it is crucial to determine as many
physical properties for the nuclei of as many of the few currently known
MBCs as possible. This information will aid in developing a
understanding of the population's global characteristics, such as the
level of diversity as well as any common trends. This will then help
answer larger scientific questions such as how MBCs relate to the
background main-belt asteroid population, how abundant MBCs may be, and
what they can tell us about the past and present distribution of ice in
the inner solar system.
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 > 2013A-0465 |
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