Assessing the Detection of Near Earth Asteroids with the Space-borne Gravitational Waves Detector LISA

Sara Carvalho Marques

Key information

Authors:

Sara Carvalho Marques (Sara Carvalho Marques)

Supervisors:

Oliver Jennrich; Paulo Jorge Soares Gil (Paulo Jorge Soares Gil)

Published in

07/09/2024

Abstract

Gravitational wave astronomy presents an unparalleled opportunity for cosmic exploration, with the imminent launch of the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) poised to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. This work examines the use of gravitational wave astronomy in the planetary science context, particularly focusing on leveraging LISA data for the detection of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs). It addresses key questions such as which variables can influence the detection, what is the detection probability for a certain asteroid and what precision can we be able to extract its orbital elements and physical properties such as the mass. Employing a comprehensive methodology encompassing theoretical modeling, numerical simulations, statistical analyses and Fisher Information techniques, the study uncovers significant insights. By examining factors influencing NEA detectability and employing statistical approaches to estimate detection probabilities under different scenarios, the research unveils insightful trends, indicating a likelihood of NEA detection by LISA, particularly for larger objects and those in closer orbital proximity. Fisher Information techniques provide robust estimates of uncertainty in NEA properties derived from LISA observations, underscoring the potential of gravitational wave astronomy in planetary defense and exploration. The obtained insights provide the way for future research.