Optimization methods for asteroid lightcurve inversion - II. The complete inverse problem

The rotation period, pole direction, and scattering parameters of an astero id can be deduced from its lightcurves simultaneously with the shape. Simul ations and real data indicate that the result obtained with convex inversio n is unique and stable if several lightcurves obtained at various geometrie s are available. Since the parameters of scattering laws such as the Hapke or Lumme-Bowell models cannot be determined well using lightcurves only, we introduce a simple empirical scattering law. This law can be applied in th e computation of reference lightcurves and phase curves for further analysi s of the physical properties of the surface. We present shape, pole, and pe riod solutions for asteroids that have also been: observed by space probes or radar. (C) 2001 Academic Press.