YPIE Scientist: Dion Parra and Christopher Reyes

Research: Asteroid Orbit Determination for 5066 Garrad 1990 MA

Mentor: Dr. Batiste, Dr. Domingue, & Dr. Mahabaduge

Research Location: Georgia College & State University, Milledgeville Georgia

Abstract:

In this study, Asteroid 5066 Garradd will be observed using telescopic imaging with centroiding techniques (Savanevych et al. 2015). Using three observations, Gauss’s method will be applied to predict the asteroid’s apparent motion. Lastly, the results will be compared with thermal infrared size estimates (Alí-Lagoa et al. 2017). This study will provide an updated orbit for 5066 Garadd, reducing uncertainties in its semi-major axis, eccentricity, and inclination (Liu et al. 2023) through a demonstration of Gauss’s method’s efficacy for Mars-crossing asteroids, more specifically those with sparse observational data (Savanevych et al. 2015). The goal is to gain insights into the asteroid’s long-term dynamical evolution, including resonant perturbations and close encounters with Mars (Dellnitz et al. 2005). Through the integration of classical orbit-determination techniques with modern observational data (Savanevych et al. 2015), this work aims to elevate the understanding of 5066 Garrradd and contribute to broader efforts in asteroid tracking and characterization (Perna et al. 2016; Binzel et al. 2019).

About this Scientist:   

Christopher Reyes-Aquino and Dion Parra are seniors currently enrolled in the full IB Program in Yonkers Middle High School. In college Christopher plans on majoring in Aerospace Engineering to pursue his goal of working in a laboratory while collaborating with other scientists in his field. Dion plans on majoring in Mechanical Engineering while exploring his passion for film and television in college.

Presentation Slides