The composition of asteroids is often studied using remote sensing, but this method is flawed. A group of scientists has proposed using the products of asteroids colliding with meteors for analysis. A project called MIDEA (Meteorite Impact Detection for the Exploration of Asteroids) proposes using a series of small satellites equipped with plasma sensors. These sensors will analyze the particle cloud formed after a meteor strikes an asteroid.
According to scientists, such a system would allow the development of a map of the asteroid’s surface composition with a resolution of up to 1 meter in just 50 days. The central spacecraft of the project is a CubeSat weighing about 50 kg. A standard CubeSat propulsion system will be used to reach the asteroid.
Once in orbit around the asteroid, the central apparatus will release a swarm of miniature sensor satellites, each weighing about 250 grams. Each such satellite will be equipped with a sensor that is constantly aimed at the asteroid, as well as solar panels and an attitude control system.
The need for simultaneous orientation towards the asteroid and the Sun for recharging requires the use of a special technique – reflection control. The satellite will adjust its position by pointing the reflective surface towards or away from the Sun.
Data from the sensors will be transmitted to a central apparatus that will combine them and send them to Earth. Scientists will be able to analyze the composition of the particle cloud formed by the collision on Earth and determine the composition of the asteroid’s surface in the impact zone.
Although the idea seems simple, in practice there are many engineering challenges to solve, including managing a swarm of satellites orbiting an asteroid.
Currently the MIDEA project is in the development phase and awaits funding.
Source: Ferra
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