Light Curves of Trojan Asteroids using TRAPPIST telescopes

Abstract

This thesis presents a photometric and astrometric examination of the Jupiter Tro- jan asteroids (3063) Makhaon, (12929) Periboea, (3708) Socus, (11509) Thersilochos, and (3793) Leonteus. Light curves were obtained using the TRAPPIST telescopes, and their amplitudes, rotation periods, and shape properties were analyzed. All of the objects had rotation periods between around 6 and 12 hours, and their modest amplitudes suggested spheroidal to moderately elongated forms. Spectral slopes re- vealed a mostly D-type taxonomy based on BVRI color indices, which is consistent with red and organic matter-rich surfaces. Orbital elements were calculated using astrometric data and the Find Orb program to confirm their Trojan nature. These findings add to our understanding of the variety of Trojan composition, shape, and spin and offer important background information for upcoming exploration missions like NASA’s Lucy.