Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Skylar Butler, Junior Jackson Sackrider, Senior
Lead Presenter's Name
Skylar Butler
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Ted von Hippel
Abstract
Asteroids are relics of our solar system’s early formation, preserving valuable information about planetary evolution. Understanding their rotational properties and surface features provides deeper insights into the dynamical and thermophysical processes that shape their evolution. This study aims to conduct photometric observations of two main-belt asteroids, Egeria and Eunomia, using the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 1-meter telescope. Observations will be conducted in the red band on February 28 and March 14, 2025, over five-hour sessions, capturing full rotational light curves for each asteroid. These data will be analyzed using MPO Canopus to generate 3D surface models through photometric inversion techniques. The results will provide insights into the effects of the Yarkovsky and YORP mechanisms on asteroid evolution and contribute to discussions on asteroid topography in public outreach initiatives. By improving our understanding of these celestial bodies, this research enhances broader studies on planetary formation and the evolution of small bodies in the solar system.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Included in
Physical Processes Commons, Stars, Interstellar Medium and the Galaxy Commons, The Sun and the Solar System Commons
Determining the Light Curve and 3D Shape of Asteroid Eunomia and Egeria Using Relative Photometry
Asteroids are relics of our solar system’s early formation, preserving valuable information about planetary evolution. Understanding their rotational properties and surface features provides deeper insights into the dynamical and thermophysical processes that shape their evolution. This study aims to conduct photometric observations of two main-belt asteroids, Egeria and Eunomia, using the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 1-meter telescope. Observations will be conducted in the red band on February 28 and March 14, 2025, over five-hour sessions, capturing full rotational light curves for each asteroid. These data will be analyzed using MPO Canopus to generate 3D surface models through photometric inversion techniques. The results will provide insights into the effects of the Yarkovsky and YORP mechanisms on asteroid evolution and contribute to discussions on asteroid topography in public outreach initiatives. By improving our understanding of these celestial bodies, this research enhances broader studies on planetary formation and the evolution of small bodies in the solar system.