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S. Kaasalainen, J. Piironen, K. Muinonen (Observatory, University of Helsinki), H. Kartunen (Tuorla Observatory), J. Peltoniemi (Finnish Geodetic Institute)
Laboratory study is important in the photometric study of asteroids and planetary surfaces, since it gives an opportunity for systematic variation and comparison of samples. We present photometric measurements at phase angles from zero to 18 degrees for particulate and solid samples. Results are shown for aluminium oxide powder, Sahara sand and different meteorite rocks. The experimental setup consists of a laser light source, and a beam splitter for reaching the smallest phase angles. The device is also designed for outdoor use, allowing for the first time the systematic phase curve study of terrestrial snow and ices. Measurements at excact zero phase are especially important in the further study and understanding of the role of the coherent backscattering in the opposition effect of the solar system satellites and asteroids, including bright and icy objects. The results will also be applied in the interpretation of, e.g., the SMART-1 AMIE data.
The author(s) of this abstract have provided an email address for comments about the abstract: Sanna.Kaasalainen@helsinki.fi