Photometric Imaging of Asteroid 2 Pallas
HST Proposal 11115

Christopher Russell (publications @ ADS)
University of California - Los Angeles

Cycle: 16
Category: SOLAR SYSTEM
Proposal type: GO
Status: completed

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Proposal Abstract

We propose to conduct the first HST imaging of Asteroid 2 Pallas with WFPC2-PC over 4 HST orbits. We will image the asteroid in five filters: F336w, F439w, F555w, F675w and F814w. We will utilize these observations to drastically improve the knowledge of Pallas' shape, spin pole position and surface properties, including roughness and albedo, parameters that are poorly determined by previous study. These observations will result in high signal-to-noise, high resolution surface maps from the visible to the UV. A satellite search will also be conducted for objects within the stability field of up to 21st magnitude, or about 900m in diameter. It is demonstrated in our proposal that significant scientific opportunity exists in Cycle 16 because Pallas is at both a low-phase, 3.9 degree opposition and near its closest approach to Earth, conditions that do not occur simultaneously in the next twenty years. This window represents the best chance to answer long standing, fundamental questions about Pallas, the main asteroid belt, and the formation of the solar system.

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Publications referencing this proposal

1. Hubble Space Telescope Perspectives on Pallas
   Schmidt, B. E. et al. 2008LPICo1405.8318S
   

2. The Shape and Surface Variation of 2 Pallas from the Hubble Space Telescope
   Schmidt, B. E. et al. 2009Sci...326..275S
   

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