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Updated: Dec 20, 2025

Scattering And Absorption of Light in Planetary Regoliths
Published on: July 1, 2019
A QUARTET OF NEAR-EARTH ASTEROID BINARY CANDIDATES
1Center for Solar System Studies-Palmer Divide Station 446 Sycamore Ave., Eaton, CO 80615 USA.
Analysis of asteroid photometry data identified four probable binary asteroid candidates in the main-belt. One candidate, (276049) 2002 CE26, was confirmed as a binary, with updated orbital period and satellite size estimates.
Area of Science:
- * Astronomy and Astrophysics
- * Planetary Science
- * Solar System Studies
Background:
- * Analysis of asteroid lightcurves provides insights into their physical properties and binary status.
- * Previous observations and radar data exist for some of the studied asteroids.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To identify and characterize binary asteroid candidates using CCD photometry.
- * To refine orbital parameters and satellite properties for known and potential binary asteroids.
Main Methods:
- * CCD photometry observations were conducted at the Center for Solar System Studies-Palmer Divide Station (CS3-PDS).
- * Lightcurve data were analyzed to detect periodic variations indicative of binary systems.
- * Asteroid periods were calculated and compared with existing data and models.
Main Results:
- * Four main-belt binary asteroid candidates were identified: 2012 Tantalus, (68348) 2001 LO7, (190208) 2006 AQ, and (276049) 2002 CE26.
- * (276049) 2002 CE26, a known binary, had its period refined to 3.928 h, with indications of a satellite with a 16.26 h orbital period.
- * Lightcurve data for (276049) 2002 CE26 suggest a larger satellite than previously estimated from radar observations.
Conclusions:
- * The study successfully identified potential binary asteroids, contributing to the census of small body systems.
- * Refined data for (276049) 2002 CE26 highlight discrepancies between photometric and radar observations, warranting further investigation.
- * This research underscores the value of continued photometric monitoring for understanding asteroid system dynamics.
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