Effects of Impact and Target Parameters on the Results of a Kinetic Impactor: Predictions for the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) Mission

Abstract The Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) spacecraft will impact into the asteroid Dimorphos on 2022 September 26 as a test of kinetic impactor technique for planetary defense. efficiency deflection following can be represented using momentum enhancement factor, ? , which is dependent factors such geometry and specific target material properties. Currently, very little known about its properties, introduces uncertainty in results observables, including crater formation, ejecta distribution, . DART Impact Modeling Working Group (IWG) responsible simulations to better understand impact. Pre-impact simulation studies also provide considerable insight how different properties scenarios affect This provides basis predicting effects first understanding interpret encounter. Following impact, knowledge gained from these inform initial that recreate conditions, providing estimates potential resulting DART’s paper summarizes, at high level, what has been learned IWG experiments preparation While unknown, reasonable predictions 1–5, depending end-member cases strength regime.