Ground-Based Guidance and Navigation for Kinetic Impact to Asteroid 1999 JU3

Abstract

A kinetic impact to the asteroid 1999 JU3 by a 300kg-class impactor spacecraft is studied. This study is a part of conceptual studies conducted within the mission design of “Hayabusa-2”, the second Japanese asteroid sample-return mission. In contrast with the finally selected “Small Carry-on Impactor(SCI)” concept, the present paper shows a feasibility of a different option, the kinetic impact by a 300kg class dedicated spacecraft. This option is valuable in terms of its scientific outcome, as the impact energy is 100 times larger than the current SCI concept. This paper discusses the feasibility of the terminal impact guidance and navigation using an onboard optical telescope. The study assumes a ground operator-in-the-loop guidance scheme, which is deemed to be the lowest development risk within the limited schedule before launch. It is shown that the ground-based terminal guidance is achievable with the accuracy of 200-300m with a realistic amount of fuel and operational load.