PLANETARY DEFENSE MISSIONS
MISSION 1998 HH49
It’s spooky season and what’s scarier than contemplating the vastness of space and our own insignificance in the grand scheme of things an asteroid flyby! 1998 HH49 is an asteroid with an estimated diameter of 190m and on October 17th it will pass only 3 lunar distances away from Earth! Don’t let the season get to you, though. There’s no chance it hits us any time soon. However, observations like yours will allow us to better predict its orbit in the future. Asteroid 1998 HH49 will be visible just after the flyby, from October 18th to October 23rd.
To observe your target:
Follow the HowTo Guide for A. The target is in the Unistellar app’s database.
Use the following observation parameters:
Record Duration: 20 minutes
Exposure time: 4 seconds
Gain: 30 dB
The target is also available on the Moving Target Ephemeris webpage.
Only one observation is needed.
MISSION (525229) 2004 UU1
Our second target this month is (525229) 2004 UU1. This asteroid is ~210 meters in diameter and it will come within 11 lunar distances of Earth on October 30th! This is the true Halloween asteroid. This asteroid’s last close approach was back in 2004, when it was discovered, and once it’s given us a jumpscare it’ll go back to lurking in the darkness until 2042! So be sure to observe it while you have the chance! 2004 UU1 will be visible starting October 29th until November 3rd.
To observe your target:
Follow the HowTo Guide for A. The target is in the Unistellar app’s database.
Use the following observation parameters:
Record Duration: 20 minutes
Exposure time: 4 seconds
Gain: 30 dB
The target is also available on the Moving Target Ephemeris webpage.
Only one observation is needed.
New here? Head to our Tutorial for guidance on how to master your Unistellar telescope to become a Planetary Guardian. If you have any questions please contact us at [email protected].