To Change the Spin of an Asteroid -A Kinetic-Impactor Demonstration Mission

Abstract

We present a concept for a kinetic impactor demonstration mission, which aims to change the spin rate of an asteroid. The mission would determine the efficiency of momentum transfer during an impact, and help mature the technology required for a kinetic impactor mission, both of which are important precursor measures for a future space mission to deflect an asteroid by collisional means in an emergency impact hazard situation. Most demonstration mission ideas to date are based on changing an asteroid’s heliocentric orbit and require a reconnaissance spacecraft to measure the very small orbital perturbation due to the impact. In contrast our concept is a low-cost alternative, requiring only one spacecraft.