On a possible rotation state of (433) Eros

Due to its extremely prolate figure, Asteroid (433) Eros may exhibit an unu sual nonprincipal axis rotation state. As a result of a relatively small di fference between the maximum and intermediate moments of inertia, a small p erturbation such as the gravitational torques experienced during a close pl anetary encounter could have induced a rather large amplitude libration abo ut the longest axis. Observation of such a state will permit measurement of the moment of inertia ratios; this task may be possible once the NEAR spac ecraft enters orbit around Eros in early 2000 to begin an extensive study o f its composition and structure. (C) 1999 Academic Press.