Hubble finds potential KBO targets for New Horizons
Posted: Mon, Oct 20, 2014, 8:48 AM ET (1248 GMT)
Astronomers have discovered three Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs) that could be potential targets for the New Horizons mission after it flies past Pluto next year. The KBOs, with estimated sizes of 25 to 55 kilometers across, are within range of New Horizons given its trajectory and fuel supply. A flyby of any of those objects would take place late in the decade, and require NASA approval of an extended mission. The New Horizons mission team had been looking for several for a KBO to visit after the its July 2015 Pluto flyby, but groundbased searches failed to turn up any candidates. An extensive search by Hubble discovered the three KBOs.
Astronomers have discovered three Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs) that could be potential targets for the New Horizons mission after it flies past Pluto next year. The KBOs, with estimated sizes of 25 to 55 kilometers across, are within range of New Horizons given its trajectory and fuel supply. A flyby of any of those objects would take place late in the decade, and require NASA approval of an extended mission. The New Horizons mission team had been looking for several for a KBO to visit after the its July 2015 Pluto flyby, but groundbased searches failed to turn up any candidates. An extensive search by Hubble discovered the three KBOs.
Related Links:
| <<previous article | next article>> |
|
news in brief
|
|
Thales and Airbus to build next-generation radar imaging satellites
Posted: Sat, Jun 13 10:02 AM ET (1402 GMT) |
|
news links
|
|
Wednesday, June 17
Ariane 6 with P160C-based boosters ready for liftoff
ESA — 6:30 am ET (1030 GMT) Vandenberg Space Force Base Modernizes Historic Space Launch Complex-6 For Next-Generation Launch Operations
US Space Force — 6:28 am ET (1028 GMT) Space Force evaluating new launch complex near Port Canaveral
WFTV Orlando — 6:27 am ET (1027 GMT) Historic demolition at Vandenberg Space Force Base
KSBY-TV San Luis Obispo, CA — 6:27 am ET (1027 GMT) The SpaceX IPO has a bright side
Washington Post — 6:24 am ET (1024 GMT) |
