Palomar Planet-Crossing Asteroid Survey (PCAS)

Abstract

The objective is the discovery and follow-up of planet-crossing asteroids, related inner-belt asteroids, and comets. The primary program is carried out with the 0.46 m Schmidt telescope at Palomar Observatory. The results, subsequent observations, and analysis provide insight into their populations, orbits, origins, physical characteristics (composition, size, and shape), potential for impact, relationships to comets and meteorites, and for future spacecraft mission candidates.