This work will develop algorithms capable of gravimetry for small solar system bodies, such as asteroids and comets, during hypervelocity (i.e., >5 km/s) spacecraft flybys. The algorithms will estimate a small body’s gravitational parameter (GM) using laser ranging and camera tracking measurements by spacecraft instruments of retroreflectors deployed near the target during the high-speed flyby encounter. The primary deliverables are a software suite that demonstrates estimation of a small solar system body’s mass using simulated measurements and a report describing performance and applications for planetary defense and planetary science.
More »The anticipated benefits include:
Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
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Lead Organization | NASA Center | Greenbelt, Maryland |