Dynamical and compositional assessment of near-Earth object mission targets

Abstract

Using an H-plot analysis, we identify 234 currently known near-Earth objects that are accessible for rendezvous with a "best case" delta-V of less than 7 km/s. We provide a preliminary compositional interpretation and assessment of these potential targets by summarizing the taxonomic properties for 44 objects. Results for one-half (22) of this sample are based on new spectroscopic measurements presented here. Our approach provides an easy-to-update method for giving guidelines to both observers and mission analysts for focusing on objects for which actual mission opportunities are most likely to be found. Observing prospects are presented for categorizing the taxonomic properties of the most accessible targets that are not yet measured.