title: Optimization of deflection of a big NEO through impact with a small one.
abstract: Using a small near-Earth object (NEO) to impact a larger and potentially threatening NEO has been suggested as an effective method to avert a collision with Earth. This paper develops a procedure for analysis of the technique for specific NEOs. First, an optimization method is used to select a proper small body from the database. Some principles of optimality are achieved with the optimization process. Then, the orbit of the small body is changed to guarantee that it flies toward and impacts the big threatening NEO. Kinetic impact by a spacecraft is chosen as the strategy of deflecting the small body. The efficiency of this method is compared with that of a direct kinetic impact to the big NEO by a spacecraft. Finally, a case study is performed for the deflection of the Apophis NEO, and the efficiency of the method is assessed.
authors.affiliation: State Key Laboratory of Astronautic Dynamics, Xi'an Satellite Control Center, Xi'an 710043, China ; School of Civil Engineering and Geomatics, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK.
authors.forename: Kaijian
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Zhu
authors.affiliation: School of Management, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710043, China.
authors.forename: Weiping
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Huang
authors.affiliation: Beijing Research Institute of Control and Electronic Technology, Beijing 100038, China.
authors.forename: Yuncai
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Wang
authors.affiliation: State Key Laboratory of Astronautic Dynamics, Xi'an Satellite Control Center, Xi'an 710043, China.
authors.forename: Wei
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Niu
authors.affiliation: State Key Laboratory of Astronautic Dynamics, Xi'an Satellite Control Center, Xi'an 710043, China.
authors.forename: Gongyou
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Wu
mesh_terms: D018534:Earth, Planet; D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D055585:Physical Phenomena; D018531:Spacecraft