Starlight Diffraction Models Dimorphos' Shape After DART Impact

This paper presents a study of Dimorphos' shape after the DART impact, using starlight diffraction observed during a stellar occultation. The researchers modeled the diffraction signatures to constrain the projected shape of Dimorphos, assuming an ellipsoidal model. This is the first time diffraction observed simultaneously on several chords of a single event has been used for such a purpose. The results are consistent with recent post-DART determinations, suggesting an equatorially elongated shape. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using starlight diffraction to characterize asteroid shapes, offering a cost-effective alternative to direct imaging. Understanding the impact's effect on Dimorphos' shape is crucial for validating planetary defense models and improving our ability to predict the outcomes of future asteroid deflection missions. Further observations and more sophisticated modeling techniques could provide even more detailed insights into Dimorphos' internal structure and the dynamics of asteroid impacts. This research highlights the importance of combining ground-based observations with spacecraft data to enhance our understanding of the solar system.

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