LIGHTCURVE PHOTOMETRY OPPORTUNITIES: 2016 OCTOBER-DECEMBER

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science
• Astronomy
• Astrophysics

Background:

• Asteroid lightcurve parameters are crucial for understanding their physical properties.
• Many asteroids lack well-defined lightcurve data, hindering detailed shape and spin axis modeling.
• Radar observations provide valuable but sometimes ambiguous rotation period data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify asteroid photometry opportunities for objects with poor or unknown lightcurve parameters.
• To provide observational targets that will enhance shape and spin axis modeling through lightcurve inversion.
• To list asteroids targeted for radar observations, where complementary lightcurve data can resolve ambiguities.

Main Methods:

• Compiling lists of asteroids based on favorable apparitions.
• Identifying objects with insufficient or undefined lightcurve data.
• Cross-referencing with planned radar observation targets.

Main Results:

• A curated list of asteroid photometry targets is presented.
• The study highlights asteroids where new lightcurve data will significantly benefit physical modeling.
• Specific objects for combined radar and photometry studies are identified.

Conclusions:

• Acquiring new photometry data for selected asteroids is essential for advancing shape and spin axis models.
• Complementary lightcurve observations can resolve ambiguities in radar-derived rotation periods.
• This work facilitates targeted observational campaigns for a better understanding of asteroid physical properties.