Observing Near-Earth Objects with the James Webb Space Telescope

TL;DR

This paper evaluates JWST's capability to observe near-Earth objects, showing it can observe about 75% of NEOs annually and effectively study small NEOs through photometry, despite scheduling constraints.

Contribution

It provides an analysis of JWST's observational feasibility for NEOs, highlighting its potential to study small NEOs and outlining operational considerations.

Findings

Approximately 75% of NEOs observable annually

JWST can perform photometry on meter-sized NEOs

Observing windows are necessary due to scheduling constraints

Abstract

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has the potential to enhance our understanding of near-Earth objects (NEOs). We present results of investigations into the observability of NEOs given the nominal observing requirements of JWST on elongation (85-135 degrees) and non-sidereal rates ($<$30mas/s). We find that approximately 75% of NEOs can be observed in a given year. However, observers will need to wait for appropriate observing windows. We find that JWST can easily execute photometric observations of meter-sized NEOs which will enhance our understanding of the small NEO population.