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Encounter with Asteroids Gaspra and Ida: Imaging ResultsA progress report is given on imaging science results from the Galileo spacecraft flybys of the S-type main-belt asteroids Gaspra and Ida. Images were obtained in six colors of both asteroids, a few at resolutions better than 100 m. The overall sizes, shapes, and spin vectors of both objects are defined, and more detailed geological studies are possible for approximately half the surface of each (the hemisphere facing the spacecraft at closest approach). Each is elongated and highly irregular in profile, with heavily cratered surfaces. A number of grooves, other linear features, and surface blocks may also be associated with a recent history of impacts. Modest variations in surface albedo and color are probably due to differences in regolith development rather than compositional differences across the surfaces of each. Both the density and the size distributions of craters differ from Gaspra to Ida, in spite of its younger anticipated dynamical age, Ida is more density cratered. Ida also has a small satellite in a roughly 100-km orbit, allowing the possibility of determining the density of Ida with sufficient precision to constrain alternative models of its bulk composition.
Document ID
20010121547
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Abstract
Authors
Morrison, David
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1994
Subject Category
Astrophysics
Meeting Information
Meeting: IAU 22nd General Assembly
Location: The Hague
Country: Netherlands
Start Date: August 13, 1994
End Date: August 27, 1994
Sponsors: International Astronomical Union
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 196-41-67-06
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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