Light Curve and Physical Properties of Near-Earth Asteroid (137170) 1999 HF1
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37387/ipc.v14i1.436Keywords:
Near-Earth asteroid, Binary system, Differential photometry, Light curve, Rotation period, Shape and structure, Planetary defense, NEOs, Rotational evolutionAbstract
This work presents a photometric study of the near-Earth asteroid (137170) 1999 HF1, a binary system belonging to the Aten group. Observations were conducted using the 1.23 m telescope at the Calar Alto Observatory, employing differential photometry techniques to obtain its light curve. A rotation period of 2.327 ± 0.057 h was determined, closely matching previously reported values, which confirms the accuracy of the adopted methodology.
The light curve analysis revealed a low amplitude variation (0.122 mag), suggesting that the primary body has a nearly spherical shape and a compact internal structure, capable of withstanding high rotation rates without disintegrating. Additionally, features in the curve point to the presence of a secondary body in orbit, in agreement with prior studies identifying it as a binary system.
The results allow for a detailed characterization of the asteroid’s physical properties and contribute valuable data for refining rotational evolution and dynamical models of NEOs. Moreover, such studies are crucial for developing impact risk mitigation strategies and planetary defense efforts. This work also holds significant educational value by reinforcing essential observational skills for future research in minor body astrophysics.
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