Our Planetary Sciences group is engaged in a variety of research areas that complement our work on the DART and HERA missions. These studies range from the search for trans-Neptunian objects to the mapping of Mars. Here are our primary additional research lines:
Search for Trans-Neptunian Objects (TNOs)
- TNO Search Project: We participate in a project focused on the search for TNOs using open-access survey data. This research aims to identify and characterize these distant bodies in the outer Solar System, providing insights into their distribution and dynamics.
Research on Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs)
- Study of Asteroid Apophis (Past): Our group has conducted research on the asteroid Apophis, one of the most significant near-Earth objects due to its orbit and characteristics. This study helped improve understanding of its properties and trajectory, contributing to knowledge about the risks associated with nearby asteroids.
Planetary Cartography and Geology
- Mapping of Mars: We have a geologist on our team who performs detailed mapping of Mars’ surface, analyzing geological features and the distribution of different terrains.
- Line Patterns on Asteroid Surfaces: We investigate line patterns on the surfaces of certain asteroids, studying their origins and how these patterns can reveal information about the history and internal structure of these bodies.
Scientific Education and Outreach
- Asteroid Day and Researchers’ Night: We organize outreach events like Asteroid Day in collaboration with the University of Alicante and participate in Researchers’ Night, where we bring planetary science to the general public and promote education in planetary defense.
- Training and Internship Programs: We are dedicated to training students and researchers in planetary sciences, providing opportunities for internships and training within our research areas.