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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
11:34
Scattering And Absorption of Light in Planetary Regoliths
Published on: July 1, 2019
Near-Earth asteroids: possible sources from reflectance spectroscopy
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|July 12, 1985
Summary
Near-Earth asteroid spectra reveal diverse compositions, suggesting multiple origins. Some asteroids likely originate from the main asteroid belt, while planets and moons are not primary sources.
Area of Science:
- Astronomy
- Planetary Science
- Mineralogy
Background:
- Near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) are a diverse group of celestial bodies.
- Understanding their origins is crucial for planetary science and impact risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify potential source regions for Near-Earth asteroids (NEAs).
- To compare spectral properties of NEAs with other solar system bodies.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of reflectance spectra.
- Spectroscopic data from NEAs, main-belt asteroids, planets, and satellites.
Main Results:
- NEA spectral diversity indicates varied mineralogical compositions.
- Similarities found between NEA and main-belt asteroid spectra support specific origin models.
- Planetary and satellite spectra differ significantly from NEAs.
Conclusions:
- NEAs originate from multiple source regions, including the main asteroid belt.
- Gravitational perturbations likely contribute to NEA formation from specific asteroid families.
- Planets and moons are not significant sources for NEAs.
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