Compositional characterization of a primordial S-type asteroid family of the inner main belt

Abstract

Context. Recently, a primordial family of moderate-albedo asteroid fragments was discovered in the inner main belt. Its age was estimated to be 4.4 ± 1.7 Gyr. However, there is a lack of compositional characterization, which is important to the study of the earliest collisions in the main belt. Aims. In addition to the previously identified members and the parameters that define the family’s borders (V shape), we expanded the list of family members to include asteroids located within the central region of the V shape. These additional potential members were selected based on their diameter (larger than 7 km) and their geometric visible albedo (greater than or equal to 12%). Subsequently, we conducted a spectroscopic survey to determine the dominant taxonomy and composition of this family. This allowed us to further refine the list of family members by removing interlopers. Methods. From an initial list of 263 asteroids that are considered to be potential members of the aforementioned primordial family, we retrieved their spectra in the visible and near-infrared range from the literature and from the Gala DR3 spectral catalog of Solar System objects. For asteroids with no or poor signal-to-noise ratio spectra in the literature, we carried out new ground-based observations. We obtained new spectra for 33 members of the family using the 1.82 m Asiago Telescope for the visible spectroscopy, while for near-infrared spectroscopy, we used the 3.58 m Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG) and the 4.30 m Lowell Discovery Telescope (LDT). Results. In total, we collected spectra for 261 potential members of the primordial S-type family out of 263. We determined their spectral taxonomy and properties, such as spectral slopes and absorption band parameters, when existing. Using the taxonomical characterization and the orbital space parameters, we identified and removed 71 interlopers from the potential members list. The final list of the primordial S-type family members includes 190 asteroids. The family is dominated by S-complex (~71%) asteroids with a mineralogy similar to ordinary chondrites and pyroxene-rich minerals. The family also contains members classified as L-types and V-types. (~15% and ~9%, respectively). Conclusions. The mean albedo of the family is ~23%, and its largest probable remnant is the asteroid (30) Urania. The estimated size of the family parent body ranges between 110 and 210 km. This size range is compatible with the progenitor of H and L chondrites.