Radar studies in the solar system

Abstract

We are actively engaged in observations of asteroids and comets, both as planned targets and as targets of opportunity. The most recent example of the latter is asteroid 1991 AQ, which was discovered optically on January 14, 1991 and found to be rapidly nearing Earth. Due in part to our previous success in obtaining useful radar data on short notice, we were able to schedule time on the Arecibo radar on January 28-31, when the asteroid was within the Arecibo declination window. Each day during the period, a fresh ephemeris was made including all available data, both optical and radar. With further processing, the results of the observations are expected to include detailed two-dimensional images of the asteroid and information on its surface properties, size, shape and spin. The observing program also included two other asteroids, two of the four Galilean satellites of Jupiter, the satellites of Mars, and the planet Mercury. Analysis of newly available radar observations of Venus has led to a refinement of the spin vector of that planet and has thereby provided a coordinate basis for the Magellan spacecraft mapping mission.