NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
Taxonomy of asteroidsA taxonomic system for asteroids is discussed which is based on seven directly observable parameters from polarimetry, spectrophotometry, radiometry, and UBV photometry. The classification scheme is entirely empirical and independent of specific mineralogical interpretations. Five broad classes (designated C, S, M, E, and R), as well as an 'unclassifiable' designation, are defined on the basis of observational data for 523 asteroids. Computer-generated type classifications and derived diameters are given for the 523 asteroids, and the application of the classification procedure is illustrated. Of the 523 asteroids classified, 190 are identified as C objects, 141 as S type, 13 as type M, three as type E, three as type R, 55 as unclassifiable, and 118 as ambiguous. The present taxonomic system is compared with several other asteroid classification systems.
Document ID
19790027591
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Bowell, E.
(Lowell Observatory Flagstaff, Ariz., United States)
Chapman, C. R.
(Planetary Science Institute Tucson, Ariz., United States)
Gradie, J. C.
(Lowell Observatory Flagstaff, AZ, United States)
Zellner, B.
(Arizona, University Tucson, Ariz., United States)
Morrison, D.
(NASA Headquarters Washington, DC United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
September 1, 1978
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 35
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
79A11604
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7249
CONTRACT_GRANT: NASW-3134
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available