IRTF Data Archive Program Information

# # Program information file # PROGRAM_ID 2024B091 PROGRAM_TITLE Investigating the Distribution of Soluble Organic Matter Among Hydrated Asteroid Families PROGRAM_INV1 Pranvera Hyseni PROGRAM_INV2 Andy Rivkin PROGRAM_INV3 Myriam Telus PROGRAM_INV4 PROGRAM_INV5 PROGRAM_SCICAT main-belt / Trojan asteroids PROGRAM_ABSTRACT_BEG Understanding the implications of aqueous alteration on the distribution of soluble organic matter within hydrated asteroid families is the core objective of this research. Aqueous alteration is crucial in shaping the mineralogy of hydrated asteroids, occurred in large-scale open systems, redistributing soluble organic matter based on parent body properties. Recent studies revealed distinct spectral features among hydrated asteroids, indicating different formation environments. Previous studies suggest that heat and radiation can degrade soluble organic material, potentially leading to spectral differences. This study aims to analyze the distribution of organic materials within asteroid families utilizing SpeX LXD spectroscopic observations. Observational plans include targeting members of NST families to ensure a sufficient signal-to-noise ratio for meaningful comparisons. Two nights of observations will be conducted utilizing SpeX LXD mode, covering a spectral range from 1.67 to 4.2 um. Spectral resolution requirements and thermal flux corrections will be implemented. These processes, encompassing reduction and analysis, strive to efficiently enrich our comprehension of aqueous alteration processes and their effects on the dispersal of organic materials within hydrated asteroids. PROGRAM_ABSTRACT_END