Spin state and convex shape inversion from light curves of fast-rotating asteroids

Abstract

ABSTRACT For fast-rotating asteroids, observed light curves could be very different from real light curves due to long exposure time. We present an improved observed light-curve model that accounts for long exposure time often encountered in observations of fast-rotating asteroids. By integrating brightness over time, we derive a more accurate observed light-curve model, allowing for better shape and spin state inversion results. Our analysis demonstrates that the fast-rotating model is more suitable for spin state inversion with longer exposure time, while the Kaasalainen model suffices for shorter exposure time. For spin state and shape inversion, exposure times of approximately 0.4P and 0.2P represent critical thresholds, respectively, beyond which the fast-rotating model exhibits superior performance. Notably, scattering parameters have minimal impact on the shape inversion results. These findings contribute valuable insights to the determination of shape and spin states for fast-rotating asteroids, shedding light on the challenges posed by long exposure time in such investigations.