Peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroid imaged by radar

In summary, the conversation discusses the factors that contribute to the brightness of the upper edges in a radar image of a peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroid. It is suggested that the difference in location between the radar emitter and receiver and the presence of solar EM radiation may play a role. The possibility of a Doppler shift is also considered but ultimately dismissed.
  • #1
Spinnor
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Why is the brightest part of the asteroid radar image below the upper edges?

PIA19647_940x464.jpg


From,

http://astronomynow.com/2015/08/03/peanut-shaped-near-earth-asteroid-1999jd6-imaged-by-radar/

Is it a software effect? I would naively think that the greatest radar intensity would be reflected from the parts of the asteroid nearly perpendicular to our view. A Google image search shows a similar trend.

https://www.google.com/search?safe=...13.0...0...1ac.1.64.img..0.18.879.Clm93sqRtmU
 
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  • #2
Well, for starters, the radar emitter and receiver are in different locations.
 
  • #3
DaveC426913 said:
Well, for starters, the radar emitter and receiver are in different locations.

Right, but at the distance to the asteroid, the angle formed by the emitter, reflector, and absorber is nearly zero?
 
  • #4
Yeah. It was a reach. :biggrin:

I'll bet that we are seeing solar EM radiation in the radar range.
 
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Likes RaulTheUCSCSlug
  • #5
Looks more like a dumbbell then a peanut :biggrin: and well could it be due to something like a Doppler shift?

Edit: Nevermind I don't think it would make much sense since the radar emitter is the one emitting the rays, not the asteroid... right? Unless the asteroid is emitting radiation as well.
 

1. What is a peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroid?

A peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroid is a type of asteroid that orbits relatively close to Earth and has a distinctive elongated, or peanut-like, shape. These asteroids are typically smaller in size and are made up of rock and ice.

2. How are these peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroids imaged by radar?

Radar imaging of these asteroids involves sending radio waves from a transmitter on Earth towards the asteroid. These waves bounce off the asteroid's surface and are then picked up by a receiver, allowing scientists to create a detailed image of the asteroid's shape and features.

3. What information can be gained from radar images of these asteroids?

Radar images can provide valuable information about the size, shape, rotation, and surface features of these asteroids. They can also help scientists determine the asteroid's composition and potential hazards, such as potential impact with Earth.

4. Why is it important to study peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroids?

Studying these asteroids can help scientists better understand the formation and evolution of our solar system. They can also provide insight into the potential threat of asteroid impacts on Earth and aid in the development of strategies for planetary defense.

5. Are there any peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroids that pose a threat to Earth?

Currently, there are no known peanut-shaped near-Earth asteroids that pose a significant threat to Earth. However, continued research and monitoring of these asteroids is important in order to identify any potential future hazards and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.

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