AN EXERCISE IN DETERMINING THE ORBIT OF AN ASTEROID

by

Laurie Ann Holle, Russell Plummer, David C. Schlereth, and Mark G. Strobel

(Harald Schenk - Advisor)

ABSTRACT

Astronomers need THREE separate observations of a new comet, or asteroid in order to determine an orbit. Each observation gives them a new RA and Declination in the sky. During this summer class, we plan to use the CCD camera to take three images of the asteroid PALLAS. The second largest asteroid in the belt between Mars and Jupiter. On July 1st, 2006, Pallas will be at opposition. This is the time when it will be at its brightest in the constellation of Hercules.

The three images will give us a chance to measure a RA and Declination. This information will be inserted in special software to calculate the orbital elements of Pallas. We will then see how close our own calculations came to those of the astronomers. Our data should match the following current elements:

2.13 is the PERIHELION distance (closest distance from the Sun)

2.77 is the SEMI-MAJOR axis of the elliptical orbit

3.41 is the APHELION distance (Furthest distance from the Sun)

0.23 is the ECCENTRICITY of the orbit

4.61 is the PERIOD in years

35.0 is the INCLINATION of the orbit in degrees

This is a 5-second integration taken once every 5 minutes

by John A. Blackwell @ Northwood Ridge Observatory

Location of PALLAS during our project. Maps courtesy of Heavens-Above.com