Space Development Institute

Program of Near Earth bject Astronomical Research

The Institute is seeking funds to support two groups of astronomical observers, one each in the northern and southern hemispheres, to study Near Earth Objects (NEOs). Results of Institute sponsored research will be published publicly on the Internet in a timely manner. What follows is a general description of each facet of the research program:

The program of research: The Institute will examine NEOs in both the visible light and IR spectra.

We will pursue a program of astrometrics to improve existing NEO orbital elements and a program of spectroscopy to determine the type and suspected composition of each asteroid.

By observing changes in luminosity we intend to determine asteroid shape, size and rotational period.

Institute research will most likely categorize NEOs in the order in which they become visible to its telescopic sites. Asteroids at opposition to the Earth are the most visible, so the order in which the Institute categorizes asteroids will most likey be determined by which asteroids are at opposition when telescope time is available.

In addition, the Institute seeks to perform fast turnaround astrometrics for new NEO discoveries as announced by the Minor Planet Center.

It is not the intention of the Institute to search for new NEOs.

1) Providing Earth's scientists with valuable data to aid their research into the origin and nature of the solar system. In addition, this data should be invaluable for school children and educators as well as amateur and professional astronomers interested in any type of asteroid research or education.

2) Providing space explorers with a comprehensive and accurate list of exactly where in near Earth space natural resources may be obtained. Using this publicly available data, any space developer or national space agency can better plan for long term utilization of extra-terrestrial resources.

3) Providing governments with a comprehensive and accurate list of NEOs for the purpose of protecting Earth and her artificial satellites, spacecraft and scientific missions from collisions.

Program Duration: We intend to continue the program as long as new NEOs being discovered.

Specific Telescopes and Sites: To be determined; one in the northern hemisphere, in the United States, and one in the southern hemisphere. The Institute is currently exploring research opportunities with several North American telescopes in addition to the Inter-American Observatory at Cerro Tololo, near La Serena, Chile.

Specific Funding Requirements: To be determined. The total annual cost of the program is currently estimated to be less than $500,000 per year. That includes funding for telescope time, researcher salaries, and the analysis and publication of new knowledge.

Funding Sources: The Institute is seeking funds from private foundations, individual contributors and various government agencies.

General Technical Prerequisites for Telescopes and Sites: While a properly equipped 1 meter telescope would be minimally adequate for the intended program of research, the Institute seeks telescopes in the 1.5-2 meter range. These larger telescopes are capable of providing more accurate and valuable results.

Educational Outreach: In addition to making Institute data and results publicly available, the Institute intends to explore such educational outreach programs as "Telescopes in Education" based at Mt. Wilson.

Principal and Co-Investigators: To be determined. As far as possible, the Institute seeks to employ qualified graduate students or research post-docs.

For more information, please email info@spacedev.org.