Constraining multiple systems with GAIA

TL;DR

This paper explores how GAIA observations can enhance the measurement of dynamical parameters in multiple asteroid and dwarf systems, focusing on Pluto and Eugenia, through simulations and numerical modeling.

Contribution

It introduces a numerical model and simulation approach to assess GAIA's potential in constraining parameters of multiple asteroid systems, including Pluto and Eugenia.

Findings

GAIA will significantly improve Pluto and Charon's mass estimates.

GAIA will refine orbital elements of Petit Prince.

GAIA will better constrain Eugenia's polar oblateness.

Abstract

GAIA will provide observations of some multiple asteroid and dwarf systems. These observations are a way to determine and improve the quantification of dynamical parameters, such as the masses and the gravity fields, in these multiple systems. Here we investigate this problem in the cases of Pluto's and Eugenia's system. We simulate observations reproducing an approximate planning of the GAIA observations for both systems, as well as the New Horizons observations of Pluto. We have developed a numerical model reproducing the specific behavior of multiple asteroid system around the Sun and fit it to the simulated observations using least-square method, giving the uncertainties on the fitted parameters. We found that GAIA will improve significantly the precision of Pluto's and Charon's mass, as well as Petit Prince's orbital elements and Eugenia's polar oblateness.