Speaker
Description
Few Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs) have been characterized using the occultation method due to their small sizes and the challenges associated with predicting and observing such events. However, the advent of high-precision astrometric data from GAIA and the development of highly sensitive and fast CMOS cameras have significantly increased the success rate of observing these occultations. This study presents the successful results of the stellar occultation campaign by the Apollo-type NEA (2212) Hephaistos, observed on Friday, November 8th, 2024, 50 kilometers from Laghouat in southern Algeria, where two distinct observations were conducted under optimal conditions. The event prediction was generated using Occult software, which provided accurate timing and location data for the occultation’s trajectory. Observations were carried out using two portable motorized Celestron 8 telescopes paired with WATEC 910 cameras and IOTA VTI video time inserters, capturing the fleeting event in optimal conditions. The maximum occultation duration was approximately 0.2 seconds, allowing the asteroid to be characterized for the first time. However, additional campaigns are needed for further characterization. Notably, Hephaistos is the primary member of a group that includes (85182) 1991 AQ, (4486) Mithra, and the comet D/1766 G1 (Helfenzrieder).
This successful study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting high-precision occultation observations in Africa and highlights the potential for collaboration and capacity building in asteroid research across the continent. Studying NEAs is crucial for assessing potential impact risks on Earth and developing planetary defense strategies. Additionally, it contributes to our understanding of the formation and evolution of the Solar System through the analysis of these primitive objects.
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