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Chapter 15: Problem 3

How do modern astronomers discover new asteroids?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Modern astronomers discover new asteroids primarily through deep-space surveys. They use complex algorithms to analyze the data collected. Upon identifying a potential asteroid, repeat scans are made to verify the information. Other observatories corroborate their findings. Once verified, the asteroid is catalogued in a globally recognized archive.

Step by step solution

01

Deep-Space Surveys

Modern astronomers discover new asteroids primarily through deep-space surveys, using sophisticated telescopes and imaging technology. The sky is thoroughly scanned for any moving objects. When an object moves in a way that's consistent with the gravitational effects of the sun, that's a strong indication that it might be an asteroid.
02

Analysing the Data Collected

Once the data is collected, astronomers use complex algorithms to analyze the information. The program analyzes the images and identifies points that have moved, which could potentially be an asteroid.
03

Multiple Observations

Upon identifying a potential asteroid, astronomers follow up on the observation with repeat scans, usually three or more at different points in time, to verify the information.
04

Verification via Different Observatories and Cataloguing the Asteroid

Once it has been confirmed the object is an asteroid, the findings are corroborated by other space telescope facilities around the world to ensure its authenticity. Once verified, the new asteroid is catalogued in a globally recognized archive, like the Minor Planet Center, and the discovery is officially recognized.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Describe the asteroid belt. Does it lie completely within the plane of the ecliptic? What are its inner and outer radii?

What are near-Earth objects? What is the evidence that the Earth has been struck by these objects?

Use the Starry Night Enthusiast \({ }^{\mathrm{TM}}\) program to observe two asteroids. Display the entire celestial sphere by selecting Guides \(>\) Atlas in the Favourites menu. Center on Ceres by typing its name in the Search All Databases box in the Find pane and label it by clicking in the box to the left of its name as it appears in the Find list. In the toolbar, set the Time Flow Rate to 1 day. Then click the Run Time Forward button. (a) Watch Ceres for at least two years of simulated time. Describe how Ceres moves. How can you tell that Ceres orbits the Sun in the same direction as the planets? Does Ceres remain as close to the ecliptic (shown as a solid green line) as the planets do? (If you do not see a green line representing the ecliptic, make sure that the item The Ecliptic is checked in the View menu.) (b) Click on the Stop button and use the Find pane to locate and center the view on Pallas. Again click on the Run Time Forward button, and watch how Pallas moves for at least two years of simulated time. How does the motion of Pallas differ from that of Ceres? How are the two motions similar? Which asteroid's orbit is more steeply inclined to the plane of the Earth's orbit? How can you tell?

Discuss the idea that 1 Ceres should be regarded as the smallest dwarf planet rather than the largest asteroid. What are the advantages of this scheme? What are the disadvantages?

What are the Trojan asteroids, and where are they located? What holds them in this location?
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