Telescopes all over Kerbin, both professional and amateur, are participating in the ATN, which aims to identify and track all asteroids in the Kerbol system and monitor carefully those that could pose an impact threat to Kerbin. Every asteroid discovered is catalogued and every asteroid passing through Kerbin’s SOI is announced with a diagram of its passage. You can click the link below to reverse the order of the reports and start from the very beginning. Clicking on the bookmark icon will save your spot so you can return at any time to pick up where you left off.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN dispatch for FUF-933(C) has arrived, showing a close approach of 1.01 Munar Distance but Mun will not be in the vicinity at the time. Month is half over and already 10 known asteroids have passed through but only 3 more are expected so far to remain near avg for monthly count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-15-21 has been posted with a total of 6,481 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 40 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LPA-951(D) tumbled into our SOI earlier today and will pass by at no closer than 0.37 Munar Distance. It joins 4 other known asteroids and another is expected later today. It is scarily crowded out there! Thankfully space is big and Kerbin is (relatively) small
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
run and hide! run and hide!
but the plan is to eventually be able to better spot these objects with the help of space telescopes and redirect them when needed with spacecraft. Until then surface development remains severely restricted unless rate of impacts lowers in coming yrs
but the plan is to eventually be able to better spot these objects with the help of space telescopes and redirect them when needed with spacecraft. Until then surface development remains severely restricted unless rate of impacts lowers in coming yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN dispatch is another reminder that we don't see them all, as ZTH-672(C) was only just discovered today already traversing our SOI. At least in this case we can see it's a miss (0.44 MD) and would have had some warning if it had been on an impact trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two dispatches from the ATN arrived earlier today while we were busy with launch operations. IAF-326(C) will swing past at 1.01 Munar Distance followed closely and closer by VRC-121(E) at just 0.68 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you missed anything important these past two weeks that is not Ascension Mk3 related you can find more info on these events in our Ops Summary, including Ascension Mk3 info. If weather cooperates, prelaunch will kick off tomorrow @ 13:38 UTC! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11606
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new dispatch from ATN hot off the press for YZF-756(A), just now tumbling into our SOI for an upcoming pass of 0.24 Munar Distance at closest approach. It joins only one other known asteroid to be making its way through our (current) neck of the woods
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
field scientists have made off with >50kg of meteorites from the crater formed last week. These rocks are incredibly valuable in that they contain material from the birth of the kerbolar system, allowing us to peer into the past & attempt to solve the riddles of how things formed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN dispatch has been released for SHV-372(C), which entered our SOI when today was still only minutes old. It is projected to tumble by at no closer than 0.70 Munar Distance before returning to kerbolar orbit and not troubling us again for at least the next 32 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
soaring high "overhead" and coming no closer than 5.24 Munar Distance, RZT-112(C) entered our SOI earlier today and will not be causing any trouble as it tumbles through... this time. There's a chance it could come much closer on another pass in 2034
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-8-21 has been posted with a total of 6,441 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 36 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists are cautiously moving into the impact crater discovered earlier this week after monitoring instruments have failed to pick up any indication of hazardous environment. They will work to collect meteorite fragments and take note of the effects the impact had
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN dispatch shows ROD-393(C), now entering our SOI, will pass through Mun's orbital influence at 0.94 Munar Distance from Kerbin however as depicted Mun's position will not be close enough at perikee to have any affect its trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to be clear: scientists still do not know what makes some asteroids glow so if the asteroid did contain any such material they may not actually be hazardous - but since no one knows it is of course best to assume that they are and act accordingly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while a previous impact that we know came from a glowing asteroid back in 2018 showed no signs of hazardous remains (twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…) whatever makes it glow could have burned up on re-entry that time but maybe not this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a decent-sized ~18m crater is present in the area, burned & flattened vegetation all around but impact is localized. They are returning tomorrow to begin setting up monitoring equipment. Since ATN did not see this rock coming (yikes it was close!) unknown if it was glowing or not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today @ 15:13 UTC seismometers here and in Umbarg picked up the signature of a meteorite slamming into the ground. A team was deployed in an airship to check a field station in the plains to the north and attempt to triangulate the location. They have just reported back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
13 known asteroids encountered our SOI last month with 1 impact. 2020 had everyone hopeful the amount of monthly encounters was trending downwards but it's looking like the asteroid threat is not abating anytime soon. Our commitment to future protection remains a key goal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again we start the month off with an asteroid encounter as SEV-223(E) came tumbling into our SOI earlier today. It was however preceded by one just as massive when ZOS-759(E), discovered only 2 days ago, snuck in late yesterday to add to Jan's total with just ~1hr left!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-1-21 has been posted with a total of 6,405 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 44 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there are historical records of Great Comets, just sky sightings before orbital mechanics were understood, that will be used to attempt to determine if this one has visited us before. For now it is named Catger-Kimmin after its co-discoverers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost all comets sport tails (some are "dead"), but usually you need a telescope to see them. Great Comets fall into the inner system every few decades and this is the first since the ATN began to keep records. It has a period of 683 years so it's likely a first sighting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomical community is abuzz with latest news from the ATN that they have discovered a new long-period comet which could potentially be naked-eye visible. It's got no tail yet but so bright it's either very large or very icy or best-case scenario somewhere in between
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several more days still remain in the month but this ATN dispatch for YNY-287(C), now breaching our SOI to pass no closer than 2.89 Munar Distance, is the last one we expect to see - which would be nice because the rate of encounters has not lessened much as everyone hoped
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just entering our SOI now, latest ATN dispatch shows CKK-061(D) passing by no closer than 0.84 Munar Distance. It is the penultimate known SOI encounter for the month, although no one is slacking off keeping eyes on the sky for the ones we surely haven't spotted yet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN dispatch released for JDQ-248(C) earlier today, set to tumble by at no closer than 1.29 Munar Distance. There is absolutely nothing exciting to say about it - which is on one hand nice but on the other hand it would be cool if it were glowing?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-25-21 has been posted with a total of 6,361 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 36 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today during the Progeny mission ATN sent out a dispatch for QPL-422(C), which will be swooping through the extremities of the system and coming no closer than 5.87 Munar Distance (for a reminder, the SOI of Kerbin extends out to 7.01MD)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-18-21 has been posted with a total of 6,325 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 61 (!!) asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday while Mun was high in the daylit sky ZDO-325(C) passed through its SOI along this projected trajectory. Observations since then have confirmed the asteroid is on the predicted escape trajectory out of the Kerbin system and was not captured
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN dispatch has TJB-211(D) entering our SOI right now, set to come no closer than 1.29 Munar Distance. It's the last known asteroid for the 1st half of this month, which already number 8. So far we are expecting only 3 more in the latter half of January
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although there is no danger of a repeat encounter after the one in 2022, scientists are considering a mission proposal that would send a probe out during its SOI crossing to attempt to redirect it as a pathfinder for preventing a possible impact in the future
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comet BNK-065(D) was discovered today on an intercept course for Kerbin's SOI in early 2022, thankfully coming nowhere close on its pass by. Comets remain a great danger due to their high relative velocity compared to the majority of NKOs that share a similar orbit to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
late yesterday saw entry of ZFS-492(C), passing no closer than 2.06 Munar Distance and causing no troubles - at least, not on this visit. Thankfully trajectory analysis shows it also shouldn't bother us again for the next 13 years before we need to check back in on it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news from ATN is detection rates have continued to improve, up to 72% as opposed to 56% last year. Bad news is that we still missed a big one that shares a similar latitude to KSC. So if Kerbin's rotation rate had been different, it could have fallen right on top of us!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
All impacts from 2020, including those on land that were picked up via seismic sensors. Circle size = relative magnitude but do not always directly correlate to asteroid size, as a larger asteroid could break up to cause less of an impact than a smaller one that remains intact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
space around us remains relatively crowded as latest ATN dispatch for CTG-350(C) shows the rock swinging past at no closer than 0.68 Munar Distance. It joins two other asteroids currently known to be in our SOI. As per the report released earlier today, 5 more are still expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-11-21 has been posted with a total of 6,264 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 34 asteroids that were discovered this past week, including a new long period comet. It orbits Kerbol every 1,500 years!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZDO-325(C) entered our SOI earlier today and ATN have confirmed the asteroid is another space rock headed for a Mun intercept. After the encounter later this week it will get kicked out into a higher orbit with a gravity assist and will not be captured
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
set to enter our SOI late today, QAY-405(B) will start the year off with a close-pass record that will be hard to beat, skimming just 37km above our atmosphere! We did have one asteroid skim through our atmosphere last July - twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN dispatch for AIR-282(C), which came tumbling into our SOI early today and will swing past no closer than 0.10 Munar Distance. It had a chance for an outbound Mun encounter but the two will not be sharing the same space at the time it crosses Mun's orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with all the additional scopes that have come online over the past two years more time will be available in 2021 for peering deeper into the outer system while still being able to maintain vigilance over the still substantial remaining NKO population yet to be detected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has released its annual breakdown of our known asteroid population and Main Belt asteroids have finally knocked NKOs completely off the mass & size charts, which is a good sign that we have spotted the majority of the asteroids threatening Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert for PBQ-498(C), which has entered our SOI and confirmed to be impacting the atmosphere well clear of any ongoing surface operations. What doesn't burn up after the rock breaks apart on entry will cause localized damage that will not affect ATN Central ~500km to the west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SHB-752(A)'s Mun encounter was tracked by ATN Central late yesterday and its updated course fits to predictions so it will indeed not become a captured moonlet. Unfortunate to see, as a new moonlet would be nice but also nice to see that trajectory analysis was spot-on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last month was the busiest of the year with 13 known encounters. Average per month was 9 compared to 12 in 2019, a number we hope will continue to trend downwards as surface activity trends upwards. With 7 already spotted heading for our SOI in Jan, 2021 not off to a good start
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-4-21 has been posted with a total of 6,231 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already another ATN dispatch, this one for SHB-752(A), which entered our SOI at the start of today and after passing us by at no closer than 0.35 Munar Distance it will encounter Mun on its outbound travel, which will brake the asteroid but unfortunately not enough for a capture
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
December may have ended more quietly than expected but Jan is already off to a running start with FMN-294(C) entering our SOI earlier today according to this latest ATN dispatch, which has it coming no closer than 2.71 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-28-20 has been posted with a total of 6,201 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 28 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-21-20 has been posted with a total of 6,174 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 37 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two recent ATN bulletins were issued over this weekend and we missed picking up on them as preparations were underway to finish up operations for the year. Neither pose a threat and Dec continues to remain busy - a trend we hope does not continue into 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert for ETE-076(C), which entered our SOI earlier today, confirms predictions from discovery back in early Nov that it will enter the atmosphere south of KSC's landmass. No threat posed to the space center or any maritime operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
short-period comet discoveries
2017: 54
2018: 74
2019: 62
2020: 141 (and counting)
The massive increase this year was due to ATN South and North entering full operation to give us more coverage of the skies where these highly-inclined objects tend to reside
2017: 54
2018: 74
2019: 62
2020: 141 (and counting)
The massive increase this year was due to ATN South and North entering full operation to give us more coverage of the skies where these highly-inclined objects tend to reside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN dispatch for WEB-196(C), entering our SOI right this minute and set to soar high "above", coming no closer than 4.99 Munar Distance. Halfway through December now and so far 3 additional asteroids have been discovered to the 10 already known at the start of the month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial full inspection of ATN/DSN South has been completed and the observatory & comms dish are not damaged. Station staff are moving back in this week. Astronomers there will have to deal with poor seeing for a few more days as particles still linger in atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-14-20 has been posted with a total of 6,137 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 42 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DGG-325(C) was discovered earlier today already transiting the system, just another reminder that there are still some out there that we don't catch early, or not at all. Thankfully this one poses no threat (this time at least), coming no closer than 4.68 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XAI-822(C) has just begun its transit through our SOI, swooping through nearly on-plane and passing closest at 1.44 Munar Distance. It actually does almost cross Minmus' orbit on its way in and out, but the moon will not be anywhere nearby to affect its trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II has allowed for reports on the ROF-184(C) encounter to already come in & the asteroid did break up on re-entry to make multiple impacts in the mountains NE of DSN/ATN South. No large fallout over the observatory, which is also well above tree line so no fire danger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
of course, even if it does happen to be discovered again we doubt the conspiracy theorists will believe the reports and will maintain it was an alien vessel monitoring our planet that simply departed for reasons unknown to places unknown and OMG watch out the invasion is coming!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have given up looking for Chikelu in orbit and are as sure as they can be it's no longer there. All new asteroid discoveries by the ATN will be checked against possible ejection orbits - it's possible we will eventually rediscover it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully the early warning has given time for the observatory to suspend operations and isolate delicate equipment from any seismic shocks. The entire outpost has been evacuated already as well as a precaution even tho any impacts should be well to the northeast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert has confirmation that ROF-184(C), discovered back at the end of Oct, will indeed be making a very close potential impact near the southern observatory and communications outpost. While it's not likely to reach the ground intact, threat is still posed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QTW-326(C) will be entering our SOI soon and streak through the outer system well past Minmus, coming no closer than 4.32 Munar Distance. Still transiting the system along with it are URH-819(B) and AIB-850(A) - at least, that we know of...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert has confirmed URH-819(B) will be impacting our atmosphere later this week as predicted back when it was discovered late last month. Now as then, no real danger posed as the small rock will likely break apart on re-entry. If it reaches water, impact no danger to Arekibo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AIB-850(A), known space rock #6 of December, will begin to meander through our system later this hour and will pose no threat as it passes by no closer than 2.10 Munar Distance before tumbling back out into kerbolar orbit for the next few decades
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-7-20 has been posted with a total of 6,100 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 36 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network made notice of another asteroid discovery today, SXD-260(B), that was also found on the same day of passing through an SOI - however two big differences: that SOI will be Jool's and it will happen today but in 2255!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EMF-950(C) was only discovered earlier today while already in transit through our SOI - the late detection is from ATN North and that now gives us 4 known asteroids in the system (with prob 2-3 more unseen). As predicted, this month is getting busy...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yet another ATN dispatch as NAF-150(C) has been confirmed to be entering our SOI later today and continues a trend that began yesterday which we hope will stop soon - this asteroid will skim past even closer than the other two at only 0.08 Munar Distance!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
joining yesterday's entry, KMV-609(B) tumbled into our SOI earlier today for an eventual close pass of 0.26 Munar Distance. Its low inclination will make it a possible observation target for Arikebo, which uses its radar to image asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EMO-704(E), the first known asteroid of December, just entered our SOI & is thankfully passing us by with a comfortable margin, coming no closer than 1.41 Munar Distance. Asteroid designations are phonetic - there's no implication that this is a moody space rock
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with 4 known asteroid encounters at the start of November, ending with only 6 total w/1 impact was nice. Not the lowest of the year tho (4). December is looking to be more on average with 10 already known to be incoming, wasting no time and starting later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-30-20 has been posted with a total of 6,064 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-23-20 has been posted with a total of 6,039 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 31 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VJL-349(C), entering our SOI earlier today, is the last known asteroid encounter of November, set to come no closer than 0.24 Munar Distance. We still have over a week left to possibly discover more however, the ATN continues to watch the skies...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-16-20 has been posted with a total of 6,004 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 53 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ASL-336(C) is highly-inclined but thankfully not in a manner that is threatening to us. The rock will be tumbling into our SOI later today and will pass no closer than 3.54 Munar Distance. It joins one other known asteroid to currently be transiting the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest asteroid to come tumbling into our sphere of gravitational influence was KBT-133(C) earlier today. It will pose no threat, passing well away from us and coming no closer than 1.85 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-9-20 has been posted with a total of 5,951 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 26 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN bulletin shows HIS-444(E), which entered our SOI earlier today, has been confirmed to be on impact trajectory. Asteroids of this size are highly likely to reach the surface mostly intact, thankfully water impact will lessen any affects on Arekibo optical observatories
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a great relief that October only had 10 known asteroids when we started the month already knowing about 8. November is looking much better with only 4 known encounters to start off the month (counting today's) but that probably means we're in for like 15 right? Duck and cover!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GBJ-536(C), the first known asteroid of November, has just tumbled into our sphere of gravitational influence, following a trajectory that will swing it past us at 0.81 Munar Distance later this weekend. ATN monthly report later today will have Nov forecast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-2-20 has been posted with a total of 5,925 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 27 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a final asteroid sneaks in to end October. ATN confirms HEX-775(A) has just now entered our SOI for a swing through the system, coming no closer than 1.01 Munar Distance. So it could have maybe hit Mun? No, the perikee does not actually cross Mun's orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-26-20 has been posted with a total of 5,898 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 38 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2016 the ATN issued its first bulletin for a potential asteroid encounter with Kerbin's SOI and kicked off quite the panic, which is what led to its more formal bulletins with plot images that are released *after* they know exactly what the asteroid is up to
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's not time yet for everyone to enjoy the weekend - majority of Kerbin II operations team will be at it until late today - but if it's time for you to log off already be sure to first catch up on major events from these last two weeks: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11332
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has already gotten updated data for JNO-966(B), set to enter our SOI later today and come no closer than 0.13 Munar Distance as it swings through the system, narrowly missing Minmus's SOI (not the moon itself) on its way out. It is Oct's penultimate known space rock
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sharing the same mountaintops as our DSN stations, the ATN North & South observatories have both been fully commissioned and are already starting to work through the long list of observation proposals that have been submitted over the past year. This really opens up the full sky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another ATN alert for KLV-792(C), now entering our SOI. It will be coming down over water north of Ockr and well clear of any regular shipping lanes. An independent science team has been deployed to observe from land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another bulletin today from the Asteroid Tracking Network reports that LWG-151(C) has just entered our SOI and astronomers have confirmed it will be coming down over land. No surface expeditions are in the area to be affected, DSN Central also too far removed to be in danger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-19-20 has been posted with a total of 5,861 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 27 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today saw entry into our SOI of XQO-872(C), which will make a relatively close pass of 0.18 Munar Distance before tumbling back out into kerbolar orbit. 1st asteroid past the mid-month mark, we still have 4 more known encounters on the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Asteroid Tracking Network will continue to keep tabs on Alaba along with the rest of our former moonlets and the thousands of other asteroids out there. Right now it's not expected to come back through our SOI for at least the next 30 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba exited our SOI earlier 2day, we are now without an asteroid companion for the 1st time since 11/17 when Alaba was discovered. It's not the 1st moonlet, but has stuck around the longest of the 8 we've had. Here's its full nearly 3yr journey (hugeres: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spac…)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final orbital update posted for bit.ly/_Alaba, now on escape trajectory. Its orbit is not hyperbolic, so you can still see its position in the Ops Tracker 3D view and where it will leave our SOI this Sunday and the sun's gravity will keep it from falling back in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking at Mun as the east begins to lighten, starting this minute Alaba will begin its 49th and final recorded transit of the Munar SOI. It will come as close as 1.2Mm before exiting over the next hour. We should have confirmation of its escape trajectory tomorrow from the ATN
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NCT-273(D) is another SOI entry coming late in the day and will join 4 other known asteroids currently tumbling through the system. Like the rest of them, this one does not pose a threat to Kerbin and will pass no closer than 2.07 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
later today will see SOI entry for FQL-819(C), which will be swinging past at just 0.19 Munar Distance - very close by astronomical distances but no danger to us here on Kerbin. At least, not on this pass. Coming so near tho decreases the chance of impact on a future encounter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI earlier today, astronomers took another recent look at ZOZ-538(C) to confirm it will indeed be skipping through Mun's SOI as well but will not be captured as a result, even though its perikee also happens to occur during the Mun encounter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-12-20 has been posted with a total of 5,834 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 19 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest Asteroid Tracking Network bulletin depicts the trajectory of SZX-735(D), which tumbled into our sphere of influence earlier today and isn't looking to give us any trouble as it passes by, coming no closer than 1.79 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MRV-220(D) has just entered our SOI for a slow almost-loop through the system, coming no closer than 2.07 Munar Distance. This kind of encounter is prime for capture if it happens to also pass through Mun's SOI the proper way Unfortunately, not this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope everyone has a great weekend but before you log off be sure to get caught up on all the cool and exciting things that have transpired over the past to weeks here at the Kerbal Space Agency: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11318
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's Kerbin II looking SE down at Arekibo in the middle of Sea Ring crater. We're going to keep up with 1 photo op per week. Timing will depend on when sat passes overhead and when the location we're aiming for tells us they have some relatively clear skies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-5-20 has been posted with a total of 5,817 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 46 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert issued for NHQ-429(C), which has entered our SOI and been confirmed to be on course for impact. It is close enough to possibly affect the ATN/DSN North facility by kicking up enough debris into the air to obscure observations to some extent, depending on winds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba and yes, it will be getting kicked back out into Kerbolar orbit this month. Astronomers will now have to wrap up studies of the asteroid that have been ongoing since its capture in late 2017, the longest to date
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with only 7 known encounters and no impacts, Sept was not as active as predicted. Oct however looks more threatening with 8 encounters already expected, 2 of which are plotted to impact - although not in any areas that would dangerously affect any current surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully this month fizzled out and BLS-897(B) looks to be the final known asteroid to come whizzing past, on a non-threatening trajectory that will bring it only as close as 1.35 Munar Distance. We will bid it farewell next month & hope Oct is just as quiet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming down late yesterday after the science data were images taken earlier in the day looking over the uplift in Kerraria Crater, atop which sits the DSN Central ground station along with an ATN observatory. Here's the best one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are now ~98% certain Chikelu is indeed no longer in orbit around Kerbin. With ATN North/South observatories coming fully online soon to provide complete sky coverage they will know for sure by the end of the year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-28-20 has been posted with a total of 5,771 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 24 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time now for what is likely Alaba's penultimate encounter with Mun, cutting deep through its SOI for a close pass of 817.6km, taking 1h5m46s - at least that is what is projected. Day side now, will be a few days before its elongated orbit takes it back over the night side
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whoops! We forgot to keep up with bit.ly/_Alaba, which had new orbital data posted by the ATN last month after its 47th encounter. Ops Tracker is now showing its proper current trajectory. We were reminded of this cause it's 48th encounter is later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the penultimate known asteroid for Sept has arrived in our SOI just now. TAJ-294(D) has been observed since its discovery in late Aug and is projected to come no closer than 0.19 Munar Distance despite a skim through Mun's SOI on its way inbound
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-21-20 has been posted with a total of 5,747 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 31 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today saw entry of CKC-488(C) into our SOI. It will soar on past at no closer than 2.13 Munar Distance. Moving into the latter half of the month, thankfully predictions of a record setter in encounters looks to be falling well short
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our seemingly well-laid plans for installing the RTG on the pad have come up against some unforeseen and insurmountable problems - at least, this time. We are forced to roll back to the VAB and make some adjustments. Launch delayed until next week ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
technicians will access the rocket via the crew gangway to install the RTG today via a hatch in the fairing. Hooked up to the tower environmental system used for capsules the RTG heat will be pumped away and Kerbin II can be powered up and tested
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second ATN bulletin for the day, as expected, shows the trajectory for RRB-064(B). Just now entering our SOI it will swing by at 2.27 Munar Distance during closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GDV-543(C) has just entered our SOI and will be making the closest known pass of the month so far, skimming by at just 0.06 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-14-20 has been posted with a total of 5,524 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 36 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2018 the ATN confirmed the discovery of bit.ly/Vieras, the 4th named asteroid that was captured into orbit around Kerbin. It encountered Mun at least 9 times and traveled around Kerbin over 100 times before dropping into our atmosphere over the southern ocean
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN bulletin has RXI-131(D) now joining FCS-254(C) on a similar trajectory but only coming as close as 0.78 Munar Distance. Sept is just starting to heat up and is predicted to possibly be our busiest month of the year so far dealing with these rocky visitors
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FCS-254(C) is our second known visitor for the month, just now entering our SOI for a close pass of 0.52 Munar Distance "underneath" us over the coming days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-7-20 has been posted with a total of 5,680 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
notice something different about this ATN plot? REZ-109(E) is the first recorded asteroid to pass through the Eve system. Close follow-up observation is scheduled to help further constrain the gravitational properties of Eve and its small moon Gilly for future space missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN/DSN North & South have both finished commissioning runs for their telescopes and radio dishes. Each have a 27m dish that will assist in tracking of future polar satellites, with 2 scopes 8m optical & 6m infrared. We've already seen an increase in comet discoveries. Kerzzah!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a fairly busy month in August with 11 known asteroid encounters across the full spectrum, with two impacts. This month already has 7 asteroids known to be on their way towards our SOI so we could see a new record set for the year. None are expected to enter the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WVY-313(D) did end up skimming through Mun's SOI and is now skimming just above our atmosphere at perikee of 167.453km (0.014 Munar Distance). ATN will give it another close look once it's back in Kerbolar orbit to make sure its next visit isn't any time soon or any closer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-31-20 has been posted with a total of 5,650 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 43 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WVY-313(D) has just entered our SOI and is being closely watched by astronomers as it may also brush just inside of Mun's SOI on its way down to us. This would bring it in closer than its currently-plotted 0.03 Munar Distance Pe but still not low enough to enter the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest Asteroid Tracking Network bulletin is for BZL-372(C), which entered our SOI earlier towards the start of today and will pass by no closer than 4.96 Munar Distance. Traveling vertical to the ecliptic makes it a nice target for Arekibo to radar
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EDC-570(D) has just entered our SOI for its pass through the system, coming no closer than 2.33 Munar Distance along the way, which is nice because it appears to be quite massive for a class D asteroids. Classed by apparent size, some are denser than others
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-24-20 has been posted with a total of 5,607 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 33 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XBB-798(B) should be tumbling into our SOI right now according to the latest ATN report released earlier today, joining 2 other known asteroids and set to pass no closer than 0.55 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-17-20 has been posted with a total of 5,574 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 13 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
past the halfway point in August now, WXY-399(E) is the 7th known asteroid to enter our SOI and we have 3 more known encounters yet to come. As predicted, a relatively high-rate month. This visitor will swing past no closer than 5.31 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
let us welcome LNA-321(A) to our little corner of the kerbolar system and embrace it... Much better analogy then getting punched, but not as accurate unfortunately. No warnings issued for the Arekibo observatory ~200km to the northeast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
before even completing a single orbit, Alaba is already right now passing through Mun's SOI once again for its 47th recorded encounter, which is being watched from the Kongo (brown). It will come as close as 980km to the Munar surface and exit after 1h7m48s of transit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's almost time to say goodbye at last to Alaba, which should be returning to kerbolar orbit in Oct. Although the exact timing is still fuzzy, astronomers have a high degree of confidence that it will end up being ejected - just shy of a nice round 50 (recorded) encounters, of course
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data now available for bit.ly/_Alaba will be used by astronomers to plot out yet another long-term prediction after taking careful measurements these past two large shifts to attempt to properly compensate for future ones as the orbit continues to elongate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-10-20 has been posted with a total of 5,562 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 38 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VCC-224(E) has just entered our SOI to cap off the past few days of daily encounters. Things will quiet down again for the next week (based on current data) and this asteroid will also present no danger to Kerbin, passing by at 2.99 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today Alaba made a 1h6m46s pass thru Mun's SOI for its 46th recorded encounter, observed by ATN Central over the nite side as encounters switch to the descending node. It passed as close as 789km. Updated orbital data should be available tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
results remain inconclusive as to the origin of the "asteroid belt" discovered around Dres last year. This of course is exciting news for us because it means there's more reason to send a future Extremis mission out there to get more data! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
slow start to August but things are beginning to pick up a bit as the daily encounters continue with DXM-825(C) just now entering our SOI for a forthcoming pass between Mun and Minmus of 5.12 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZJA-702(A) was discovered earlier today as it tumbles back out of the system later today, naught to return for at least the next 34 years - at least by current modeling. Its size and sunward-facing perikee kept it hidden while coming so close to Kerbin earlier this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers from the ATN report initial propagation models of Alaba's trajectory after the big shift could now see it kicked out of the system by mid-October. They are waiting on the next encounter this weekend to collect additional data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today began with YIN-503(D) entering our SOI to come swinging past at 0.47 Munar Distance this week before tumbling back out to the lonely reaches of interplanetary space. This is only the 2nd known asteroid to pass us by in Aug - technically the 1st since KEA-106(D) impacted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still not exceeding 12 asteroids (record ever was 35 in Mar 2018), July does tie May for most known asteroids to pass through in a month, with two impacts. Looking into August so far the Asteroid Tracking Network is watching 6 incoming 'roids, so potential for another high count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers will continue to work on why such close passes add uncertainty to their predictions if made several encounters ahead of time. This will be very important for future Extremis missions that will make use of gravity-assist maneuvers!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba shows the large trajectory change as expected and also confirms the next encounter will happen 11 minutes sooner than originally predicted back in June. This is a large enough error to void the rest of the long-term propagation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-3-20 has been posted with a total of 5,524 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 19 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba should have just now exited Mun's SOI to complete its 45th recorded encounter, making a very close pass of just 301km over the munar surface. It should have taken ~1h15m, once again occurring in daylight so no observations taken. Will be back nightside tomorrow, update Mon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI earlier this hour, KEA-106(D) is the first known encounter of August and set to come screaming down through our atmosphere to impact the northern ice cap. It could potentially punch a hole if it doesn't break up beforehand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
get caught up on KSA operations to ensure you don't miss what's currently going on at the KSC campus: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11128 plus even a bit more we couldn't squeeze in to the news card. Everyone have a great weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YPJ-038(A), the final known asteroid encounter of July, entered our SOI earlier today to join GKN-892(C) and will pass by no closer than 2.62 Munar Distance. Like most (thankfully) it is not predicted to visit us again for at least the next 33 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new bit.ly/_Alaba orbital data shows an encounter time for this Sat of 20:12:11 (local) when it was predicted as 20:12:14 back in June. This slight error tracks with prev minor orbital changes, meaning the upcoming big one will likely void the prediction... as predicted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GKN-892(C) is predicted to tumble into our SOI this hour. The penultimate known asteroid of July, it will come no closer than 5.20 Munar Distance. No other known asteroids are in the system although it will be joined by another one tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports no additional sighting of JLH-722(A) - it either broke up or slammed into the surface sometime after the last known pass near Arekibo. Modeling suggested a 3rd pass should have been over Sheltered Rock/Ockr again but was not seen
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today Alaba encountered Mun for the 44th time on record, taking ~1hr to transit through its SOI, coming as close as 1.6Mm. The event was not observed due to daylight. It will be picked up again in a few hours and new orbital data posted later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storms out on the northwest horizon of Arekibo blocked any chance of spotting JLH-722(A) and distant thunder could have shrouded an explosion although detailed analysis of recordings are still ongoing to look for any distinctive sound signature
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the second pass of JLH-722(A) could possibly be seen by kerbs at Arekibo ~2131 UTC. Re-entry starts at only 10° above the horizon so whether it heats up enough to become visible before disappearing is questionable. Any explosion should carry well over open water tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-27-20 has been posted with a total of 5,505 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 39 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLH-722(A) has been rediscovered and is on approach to pass through the atmosphere again tomorrow. Astronomers are taking bets on whether it will survive. Due to small size, possible it could fuse & harden to become more durable and keep from breaking apart
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a 2nd entry today, the only other double-header besides May 8th of this year, QQG-648(C) will be swinging closer but still safely away at just 0.18 Munar Distance. By this time in 2019, 10 days of dual asteroid encounters had already occurred, more evidence rate is slowing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MML-899(A) is making its entry into our SOI this minute and will pass no closer than 3.68 Munar Distance as it slowly tumbles (rotational speed, we mean - its sun-centric velocity is over 9km/s) through the outer system. It is the 9th known asteroid encounter of July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was too cloudy over Ockr but the camera at Sheltered Rock got a good view of JLH-722(A) passing by at perikee just after 2nd sunset. It survived & exited sunward, which means astronomers will not be able to hunt it down to confirm it was captured (as expected) for several days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLH-722(A) is set to pass low through our upper atmosphere early today, traveling east to west. Remote cameras are ready to observe. Kerbs are warned NOT to surface to view this event. If it explodes, the resulting shockwave could cause injury or death
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully UQS-486(C), now entering our SOI to join 2 others, doesn't continue the trend of coming any closer. In fact we know of no asteroid impacts occurring this month so far. It will swoop through the outer system, coming no closer than 3.85 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-20-20 has been posted with a total of 5,466 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 42 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLH-722(A) wins this month's How Low Can You Go contest, skimming through our atmosphere later this week. Astronomers are prepping to observe it as best as possible to see if it becomes captured. If so, it will eventually break apart or impact Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there's a continuing trend here, with ZCQ-280(C) entering our SOI later today and coming still closer than the previous two recent encounters at only 0.03 Munar Distance. Stay tuned: this game of How Low Can You Go will continue this weekend...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DZE-620(C) entered our SOI early today and is set to come significantly closer than ZNT-909(A) but still holding off at a safe length of 0.32 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZNT-909(A) entered our SOI earlier today and is the first of a batch of 5 known asteroids set to pass us in only the next 6 days, also joining AZJ-200(C). It will stay well out past Minmus, coming no closer than 5.26 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that highly-elliptical red orbit in the inner-system diagram is not an error. That is a short-period comet that crosses Kerbin's orbit. Thankfully few of these exist, as the relatively high velocity of comets makes them more dangerous than regular NKOs in similar orbits to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-13-20 has been posted with a total of 5,424 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 25 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 3rd known asteroid of July came tumbling into our SOI today. AZJ-200(C) will pass no closer than 0.65 Munar Distance as it travels through our system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
most are still waiting after a month, because of course the fear is that as soon as they leave it will come. Whether it does or not, we will continue normal operations because either way it's not like we can do anything about it if they are that advanced twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
June tied April with the fewest amounts of known encounters this year, meaning May's record high count could be just a spike not a sign of encounters increasing again. This would be nice as surface operations continue to expand and become more numerous
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-6-20 has been posted with a total of 5,399 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 48 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a few hours ago YVU-024(C) joined KFT-153(C) in our SOI, set to come no closer than 1.24 Munar Distance over this week as it begins to tumble through. KFT-153(C) on the other hand is due to exit later today. There could also be 2-3 more we haven't spotted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest orbital update now available for bit.ly/_Alaba shows it continue to stick to predictions with small trajectory changes that don't upset the propagation. This should continue until the big shift that is expected in early August, two encounters from now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KFT-153(C), the first known asteroid of July, has just entered our SOI and is making a relatively close swing past us this week coming within 0.05 Munar Distance before getting flung back out into Kerbolar orbit, where it should remain for at least the next 31 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for its 43rd Mun encounter on record, starting this min, Alaba will dip into Mun's SOI for only 36m21s & come no closer than 1.9Mm. Kravass will watch Mun set juuuust as Alaba returns to Kerbin's SOI so astronomers will want an add'l day or two of obsv before publishing an update
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-29-20 has been posted with a total of 5,351 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 26 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this was an exciting week, make sure you didn't miss anything by check out our weekly Ops Summary on the website, where we have some speculation on the USI sale. We hope everyone has a relaxing weekend! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11062
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered already transiting our SOI earlier today, QNX-585(C) will be the final known asteroid to pass us by this month, set to come no closer than 2.07 Munar Distance, if astronomers don't happen to spot any more...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CKV-181(C), which has just entered our SOI, will skirt the Kerbin system and come no closer than 4.56 Munar Distance on its (hopefully) everlasting and otherwise lonely journey through the vast emptiness of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still only slightly affected by its recent Mun encounter, updated bit.ly/_Alaba orbital data shows it to remain right on the trajectory predicted earlier this month as expected. That doesn't mean astronomers won't keep a close eye on it though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-22-20 has been posted with a total of 5,325 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 35 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the HAB practically shut down in the absence of C7 Aerospace, its copious amount of floor space was temporarily partitioned this weekend to allow the KAS Annual Symposium to take place here at KSC for the first time. Alaba was a hot topic as usual
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you think all the recent propagation errors with Alaba is something new, guess again. Astronomers have been refining their models for years based on past errors, and will continue to do so for years to come twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Arekibo had some optical scopes keeping an eye on Alaba as it passed through Mun's SOI for the 42nd time on record, coming as close as 2.1Mm to the surface and just now exiting after 18m42s of transit. As usual, orbital update will be posted in the coming days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
halfway through the month and only the third known asteroid, UVA-965(C), has just come tumbling waywardly into our SOI, set to pass at no closer than 3.96 Munar Distance. As of right now we don't expect any more but of course telescopes are still always watching the skies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as expected, latest update to bit.ly/_Alaba orbital data shows it right on target for its next encounter at the end of this week. The shift to its orbit was very small and will continue to be minor until the 45th encounter, after which all bets could be off
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-15-20 has been posted with a total of 5,290 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 24 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
observers from Kravass, KSC, Ockr and DSN Central all had eyes on Alaba early today as it made its 41st recorded Mun encounter, passing 2Mm from the munar surface and transiting through in 31m30s. Trajectory update expected within the next day or two
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you think you missed anything important these past two weeks, we gotcha covered in the Ops Summary - kerbalspace.agency/?p=11028
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ever since Chikelu reportedly vanished, increased traffic to the Monolith temple has been linked to the belief that it was really a disguised alien vessel and that The Mothership is finally soon to arrive and take away the True Believers to their new home in the stars
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however astronomers are now wary of the accuracy past encounter #45, which will see a close Mun pass leading to a large shift in eccentricity and argument of periapsis - the same type of shift that began to throw off the March prediction. Time will tell...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Here is a look at the new long-term propagation, going out 15 encounters over the next year. Alaba seems to yo-yo instead of escape, possibly coming back to crash into Kerbin or Mun. Hi-res 4k plots available:
flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spac…
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Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba, set to make its 41st recorded encounter over this coming weekend. Latest observations shows it reaching Mun's SOI nearly 4hrs earlier than what was predicted back in March, which is why a new prediction has been made
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-8-20 has been posted with a total of 5,266 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 37 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest bulletin from the Asteroid Tracking Network was posted earlier today @ 09:28 UTC when RQI-414(C) tumbled into our SOI to begin its 4-day transit, coming no closer than 1.55 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although it will briefly come into the narrow FOV of the giant 200m radio telescope, optical scopes at Arekibo will mainly be tracking Alaba through its 40th recorded Mun encounter later today @ 01:21 UTC, which is calculated to take 1h5m49s and pass 1.1Mm from the surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
12 asteroids is the record for this year so far. That was the *average* for 2019 tho so we're doing pretty good still. Actually no known impacts either, just a lot of cosmic whiffs. This month looks tame by comparison - we've only discovered two on SOI intercept course so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new bit.ly/_Alaba orbital data shows it will be even further off predictions at the next encounter later this wk. After that astronomers will have time to produce a new prediction again through the rest of this year to see if it is still on a course to be ejected by Dec
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already our first known asteroid of the month, VIB-513(C), has tumbled into our SOI just now, set to sling past at only 0.16 Munar Distance. Review of last month's highly numerous encounters is still ongoing, ATN should have a plot released later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-1-20 has been posted with a total of 5,229 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 29 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
plenty of eyes on Alaba's 39th recorded Mun encounter earlier today (pe 377km, transit time 4,559s), which did occur 19min earlier than predicted back in Mar, a very large deviation. New orbital data should be up in the next day or so as encounter 40 is not expected to be far off
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
soaring high "overhead", GSQ-409(C) is now moving through our SOI and is the last known asteroid in May to do so, unless we catch others in action over the next two days. It will come no closer than 4.85 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GEE-956(B) has just tumbled into the system, the penultimate known asteroid for this month. It will pass by inside of Minmus' orbit at no closer than 1.24 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although Alaba's orbital period is now significantly shorter as expected, it took extra time to double & triple check the new orbital data that shows a 9min deviation from March's predictions. For real this time? More info on the Ops Tracker: bit.ly/_Alaba
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
late yesterday saw entry into our SOI from GHK-185(E), passing high and over at no closer than 4.65 Munar Distance before once again coming primarily under the influence of the sun's gravity later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-25-20 has been posted with a total of 5,200 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 29 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a groundquake is also known as a temblor and an asteroid is also known as a tumbler. HCQ-461(A) has just tumbled on in to our SOI for a sweeping pass that will bring it no closer than 1.64 Munar Distance before it continues to tumble back off into the endless expanse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the close pass will bring about a significant change in Alaba's trajectory. This is the key encounter that will set the moonlet on the path to be ejected at the end of the year, if predictions hold. The big change in trajectory will also be a big test for our modeling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerman Observatory at Kravass is keeping an eye on Alaba as it encounters Mun for the 38th time on record, making its 2nd-closest flyby of this year only 566km above the Munar surface. It is expected to take 1h14m43s to transit through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZEW-099(A), set to enter our SOI later today, tallies as the 8th known asteroid close encounter of the month and will pass by at 0.25 Munar Distance before getting thrown back out into Kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-18-20 has been posted with a total of 5,171 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 17 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
located about 250km northwest of the Kongo base, scientists are excited to see it blew up over land and are eager to send out an expedition as they expect the ground to be littered with fragments of all sizes strewn for kilometers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
keologists sharing data gathered from their various seismic/acoustic stations have finally allowed astronomers to pinpoint where the asteroid that buzzed us repeatedly earlier this month met its end. Triangulation shows it exploded about 16-20km above the surface on the 3rd pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SKE-274(D) is making its first appearance in our SOI right now but could swing back around for a ~10x closer pass in 2044. This time around though it will only come as near as 1.24 Munar Distance. May is halfway thru & we still are expecting at least 4 more SOI encounters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QEW-736(A) is now making its second recorded pass through our SOI, after being discovered back in Aug 2019 and passing by at only 0.19 Munar Distance. This time it's only set to come as close as 1.89 MD. It's not expected to make a 3rd pass anytime in the next 30yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest SOI entry as of this minute is BFF-502(D), which thankfully does not feel the need to give us a hug and will pass by at no closer than 2.38 Munar Distance. It also won't visit often, not predicted to return until 2036 for another slightly closer pass of 1.93 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTS-855(D) was discovered back in mid-July 2018 and is now finally making its predicted pass through our SOI. Sometimes the NKOs we pick up nearby are still a few trips around the sun away from actually coming close enough to be affected by Kerbin's gravity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-11-20 has been posted with a total of 5,154 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 40 asteroids that were discovered this past week (comet is not hyperbolic, just cut off so everything else isn't too scaled down)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AKR-955(B) has just entered our SOI for a long slingshot around, coming no closer than 0.40 Munar Distance over the next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our bi-weekly Ops Summary has more information on Alaba's latest trajectory analysis and also details on a recent announcement that Umbra Space Industries, long-time supplier for our Progenitor rockets, has gone bankrupt! kerbalspace.agency/?p=10937
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TJK-299(C) entered our SOI late yesterday and will pass by at no closer than 0.58 Munar Distance today before making its way back out to Kerbolar orbit by tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we should have really said "trajectory" instead of "orbit" Alaba actually only orbited twice since its last encounter and in this case was actually only observed for a single orbit before its most recent encounter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba and the good news is that it remains right where it was predicted to be back in early March, despite worries to the contrary, likely due to observing difficulties on its previous orbit, which aligned with the terminator
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
5 known flybys this past month, 1 known impactor (not shown). This is the second-lowest rate of the year after January. This month may see a resurgence however as we already know of 9 incoming and it is likely we will break the 12-count average high of last year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this past week's findings were boosted by including the first commissioning data from ATN North & South observatories, covering the polar skies. These two telescopes will be key to finding more NKOs in higher inclination orbits when they pass by us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-4-20 has been posted with a total of 5,114 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 54 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still too far over the dayside to track clearly, Alaba will be making its 37th recorded Mun encounter without observation. Predictions estimate a traversal time of 37mins coming about 1.9Mm from the surface. In a few days the ATN should have new orbital data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
right now astronomers do *not* think this was Chikelu, although it was traveling north to south the inclination difference was too extreme to consider without incredible evidence. Meanwhile, kerbs at the surface colony site south of Ockr did see that first pass!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there have been no additional asteroid sightings since yesterday so it either blew up or impacted somewhere. At some point we may know as keologists gather data from seismic/acoustic stations on land & buoys at sea but that will be in their own time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
again, no explosion seen the trail just faded out as the asteroid re-entered space for another go-around. Rough estimate given Kerbin's rotation since the last pass means Arekibo could possibly see it on the next one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this just came in from the Kongo! Sensors wired to the outpost alerted them and being already on the surface photos were able to be captured before the asteroid passed out of sight - likely the same one in a decaying orbit that passed over Ockr earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was likely an asteroid traveling thru the atmosphere, but no explosion was detected - at least not from the sensors wired directly to Ockr. Ones further south, in the direction the booms were headed, will have additional data but it won't be collected until at least tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reports coming from Ockr of sonic booms picked up by nearby seismic stations, which are also equipped with acoustic sensors. It is nite over there but unfortunately the sky camera was just taken offline yesterday for maintenance & no one got to the surface in time to see anything
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DKP-370(A) is one that we saw coming, discovered back on 3/29. It has just entered into our SOI for a relatively close upcoming pass of 0.66 Munar Distance and is the first of 9 known asteroids for May, meaning this month could be the first to see an above average count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
missed another one. HCW-972(D) thankfully only buzzed past at 1.11 Munar Distance and since exiting yesterday updated observations shows it won't be back for at least the next 15 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and now impact rates have been declining, but we still need a few more yrs worth of data to determine if this is actually a trend showing us leaving a period of "heavy bombardment" or if it's just a dip in one that remains ongoing. Science! It takes time...twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-27-20 has been posted with a total of 5,060 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 34 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DJJ-538(C) was discovered yesterday as it was making its way out of the system after passing by at 1.86 Munar Distance. It is now back in kerbolar orbit and projections show it will not be coming back into our SOI again for at least the next 35 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next reason will take longer to rule out as more sky will need to be searched. Without fully knowing its internal composition, its possible a gas pocket exploded with enough force in the right direction at the right time (near apokee) to alter its inclination
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are still working through plausible reasons for Chikelu's disappearance. Close scrutiny of its last-known trajectory over the last month has found no debris, so breakup from tidal stress due to its highly eccentric orbit is unlikely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EZU-828(C) has just entered our SOI and astronomers have already confirmed that it is on course to enter the atmosphere where predicted when it was first discovered back on 4/10. Early warning & accurate trajectory analysis is a vital aspect of the Asteroid Tracking Network
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-20-20 has been posted with a total of 5,027 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 33 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba, which seems to be a bit off for its next encounter in early May however we won't know for sure until it can be re-observed a few days afterwards when it swings back around to the night side
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PGF-716(C), just now entering our SOI for a close pass of 0.95 Munar Distance, is only the 4th known asteroid of April, with just one more currently discovered to be passing by this month, which we are now nearly halfway through - so time remains to discover more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-13-20 has been posted with a total of 4,994 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 34 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just exiting Mun's SOI to complete its 36th recorded encounter, Alaba was under Mun's gravitational influence for 58m04s with a 1.35Mm periapsis. It will swing back around the night side in a few days for updated trajectory information to be obtained
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updates on the review progress for our rocketry programs as well as a recap of operations from the past two weeks can be found in the Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10886
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there was some disagreement among astronomers regarding PKO-420(E)'s initial trajectory propagation using both STOCK and KSPTOT models but recent observations show KSPTOT remains the more accurate and the asteroid will not skim through Mun's SOI on its outbound travel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both ATN/DSN North & South are undergoing commissioning operations for their telescopes and radio dishes over the next 4 months. They will then be serviceable for future orbital missions with high inclination orbits as well as increase asteroid discovery rates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after swinging back around to the night side for some more observations astronomers have announced bit.ly/_Alaba remains reasonably close to the predicted trajectory defined last month, to within 200ms. If that margin holds, ejection remains likely in December
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI, PKO-420(E) is set to take a close swing but thankfully given its size is still a miss at just 0.06 Munar Distance before getting slung back out of the system. See yaaaaaaaa
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have already discovered Sorlon back in late 2018 and the hunt is still on for any more that may be out there. With ATN North & South coming online later this year we'll have a greater chance of spotting them with more eyes regularly watching the sky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-6-20 has been posted with a total of 4,960 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 19 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ASS-503(B) has just entered our SOI, becoming the first known asteroid in April to do so. It will skirt the system, coming no closer than 4.69 Munar Distance before exiting back into kerbolar orbit next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerman Observatory at Kravass is planning to watch Alaba enter Mun's SOI later @ 03:22 UTC for a 59m52s pass, its 35th, with a 1.56Mm perimun. Unable to get good observations on exit from Arekibo, it will be a few days before it swings back around for a trajectory update
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
10 known flybys and 1 impact add up to an average month. We are happy to see the increasing trend of 2018-2019 continues to fall off. So far for April there have only been 3 asteroids discovered to be on course for intercept with Kerbin's SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EOP-776(E) is the last known asteroid to squeeze in to March, entering our SOI now for a relatively close pass of 0.65 Munar Distance. This brings the month's total up to 10, with one impact - average numbers for the year so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AML-480(E) was originally set to be the final known asteroid of March but today's ATN update says we have one more joining it tomorrow. Its 0.12 Munar Distance near-miss is the 2nd-most closest of the month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-30-20 has been posted with a total of 4,941 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 31 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things will be slowing down for a while, but we do expect to clear out the backlog quickly starting Jun/Jul to remain as close as possible to our projections made at the start of the year. We waited to hear of more Chikelu news but nothing yet kerbalspace.agency/?p=10850
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as far as we know, right now, it's no longer where it is supposed to be and so far no trace of it has been found but we're not involved in the search so not sure how much of the sky has been canvassed looking for it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is stunned the scientific community tried to cover this up, seemingly under direction of the government. Of course the Monolithic followers are having a field day about the "disguised space ship". We'll have the latest developments in today's Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's finally been confirmed, although notably this was forced out by the amateur astronomy community. bit.ly/Chikelu was last confirmed in stable orbit prior to our Ascension Mk2 mission & has since gone missing - tho when & how it disappeared exactly remains unknown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QPQ-972(C) is the penultimate known asteroid to be passing through our small bubble of space this month and like most of the others is keeping a healthy gap between it and us, set to come no closer than 3.55 Munar Distance as it tumbles past the orbit of Minmus
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have the remainder of this year to study bit.ly/_Alaba before it gets chucked back out into sun orbit, according to the new long-term prediction just released today. High res version on flickr: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spac…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there is more traffic through the outskirts of our system now with the addition of KUG-337(C), which entered our SOI earlier today and will pass by at no closer than 3.62 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as the previous known asteroid gets set to exit today, LWF-533(E) will take its place, now entering our SOI for a pass of only 4.14 Munar Distance. Pass average this month has been a comfortable 2.69 MD. Unfortunate that "up close" studies are so dangerous w/o space craft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-23-20 has been posted with a total of 4,911 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 21 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UYV-767(D) has begun a lazy arc through our Sphere of Influence earlier today, projected to come no closer than 1.66 Munar Distance. More than halfway through the month now and still 4 more known asteroids have yet to swing through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there's also the lack of orbital updates from the ATN, which observes the moonlet each perikee pass. Last one was 2/28. There should have been an update around 3/11. Still no word either from Arekibo on the lack of radar images. If KAS lying about it being there, doing a poor job
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week two separate amateur astronomers reported being unable to observe Chikelu. Kerbal Astronomical Society assured them it's there. Since then however more reports of being unable to spot the asteroid have begun to come out - but none yet from actual astronomers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-16-20 has been posted with a total of 4,890 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 33 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UWY-742(C) entered our SOI early in the day to join two other known asteroids in a transit of the system, but this one will not be making it back out again. Fortunately its ultimate demise will occur over a region of land that does not see any surface activity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TMR-339(B) entered our SOI early today and will not be sticking around long, sailing past over this weekend at no closer than 6.04 Munar Distance. Still, 1st known asteroid of March URE-027(A) remains in-system until Monday as well and tomorrow a 3rd asteroid will join in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hrm that tweet did come across a bit sensationalist. Our bad. Arekibo is performing some delicate radio observations and thus we cannot use the ground station, but thankfully no need for this mission. They still maintain contact via the ground cable, but refuse to speak about Chikelu
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the latest trajectory update for bit.ly/_Alaba shows that the asteroid will be skipping through Mun's SOI again on 4/3 and astronomers are working on a new long-term prediction for release later this month. Will Alaba be sticking around the rest of this year?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
images of bit.ly/Chikelu were planned to be taken & released by the Arekibo Radio Observatory this week but so far there has been nothing and no one is saying why. In fact, the whole observatory has gone quiet - thankfully we don't need them for this upcoming mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba is now undergoing its 34th recorded encounter with Mun, remaining on track with the updated prediction made last month that changed last year's original 3/17 encounter date. It will make a closest pass of 1.8Mm and take 45m55s before exiting. DSN Central has eyes on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LXY-802(C) will share some of the vast emptiness that surrounds us with URE-027(A) for a short while as it just now enters our SOI and continues unimpeded on its eons-long journey, coming no closer than 2.25 Munar Distance before drifting back off into the blackness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-9-20 has been posted with a total of 4,857 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 28 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
URE-027(A) is the first known asteroid of March to be swinging past, just now entering our SOI and set to come no closer than 1.97 Munar Distance. So far the Asteroid Tracking Network has discovered 7 more, putting things on track for another average month of 10-12 known flybys
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
much closer to the 2019 average than last month, February saw 10 asteroid misses - that we know of. Later this year when ATN South & North come online we expect to see even more. Right now estimates are we miss about 30-40%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-2-20 has been posted with a total of 4,829 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 37 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
newly-discovered asteroid RIC-094(E) has an orbit that initially categorized it as a member of the Main Belt family but appears more like a Comet in composition based on spectroscopic analysis. How it got there is a puzzle that astronomers are looking forward to solving
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DUI-826(B), the final known asteroid of Feb, entered our SOI earlier today and will also be making a close pass at just 0.08 Munar Distance next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MRF-507(C) is a new visitor just now entering our SOI for a pass this next month of no closer than 1.77 Munar Distance. It is the penultimate known asteroid to swing by for the month of February
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YTC-578(B) has just entered our SOI for a close skim of only 0.06 Munar Distance - how cool would it have been if Kerbin I had been in position to capture a photo as it whizzed by? Nah, we wouldn't have risked an approach close enough for a decent photo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-24-20 has been posted with a total of 4,792 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 44 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KWY-209(A) has just wandered into our sphere of influence, set to pass by no closer than 0.60 Munar Distance. Class-A asteroids are generally not visible with consumer telescopes, although it's not so much their size but their dark material not reflecting much light
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and 6 months later the projects both remain on schedule. Construction at elevation is proceeding well with much fewer cases of altitude sickness after lessons learned from DSN Central & thankfully no deaths this time twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WGT-127(C) joins the crowd of known asteroids, now entering our SOI for a pass of 3.95 Munar Distance. Past halfway through the month and there are still 3 more known encounters to come, two of which were discovered this month and more month remains to discover additional ones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-17-20 has been posted with a total of 4,748 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 35 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everything is continuing on schedule for roll out of the Ascension Mk2 to occur at the start of next week ahead of launch. Get hype!! Also get information on what else went down this past week via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10404
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not like it's a contest or anything but EJY-262(C) fell into our SOI when the day was only 10 minutes old. By now KHT-236(C) has exited but for a brief time there were 4 known asteroids whizzing by. Once again this one stays well away, coming no closer than 5.86 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just under an hour after the start of today VXT-566(A) came tumbling into our SOI to join the other two asteroids currently transiting the system. Like them, it will also thankfully remain mostly out beyond Minmus and come no closer than 2.70 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today saw entry of the month's third known asteroid KHT-236(C), which joins OTY-011(E) and will pass through the outskirts of the system coming no closer than 3.47 Munar Distance, with no repeated encounter plotted for at least the next 15 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to be clear, the 3/17 prediction error was not a typo. It was the future encounter calculated back in Oct 2019 but since then improvements in how bit.ly/KSP_TOT detects encounters has led to a new prediction. We'll see which is right next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba and updated trajectory calculations have revealed an error in earlier predictions. The next encounter is to occur on 3/10, not 3/17 as noted on the prediction plot image. End of March will see a new long-term prediction
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-10-20 has been posted with a total of 4,713 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 17 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whoops! We forgot to note Alaba has its 33rd encounter earlier today @ 11:31:49 UTC, taking 1h20s to pass through Mun's SOI coming as close as 1.4Mm. Thankfully the folks at Arekibo did not forget and were able to keep an eye on it. Orbital update coming in the next day or so
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an hour ago we once again began to host OTY-011(E) in our SOI, making its second visit since the start of last November. It will not be making a third recorded pass any time in the next 17 years. This pass through will be further than the first, no closer than 3.47MD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an extremely slow start to asteroid encounters in 2020 - not that we are complaining! Does not seem to be the norm though, already we know of 6 passing by this month, with more likely to be discovered. Also of note is that despite only 4 encounters we still had one impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-3-20 has been posted with a total of 4,696 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 57 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
later today will see the entry of UYO-577(E), kicking off February encounters with a close approach of 0.74 Munar Distance for the large space rock as it spends the coming week as our new neighbor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the expedition that was sent to check out the UNG-312(C) impact site returned with ~75kg of meteorite pieces dug out of a small crater, lots more was strewn around but they just grabbed the biggest chunks before heading back out - exiled tribe was only ~60km to the southwest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-27-20 has been posted with a total of 4,639 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 20 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BOD-773(A) made its entrance into our Sphere of Influence a few hours ago, grabbed for a short while by Kerbin's stronger local gravity to skim past at no closer than 6.56 Munar Distance before once again falling under the sun's influence later tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UNG-312(C) has just entered our SOI and astronomers have already confirmed its predicted impact trajectory, being of no impending danger to any ongoing surface operations. Scientists at the Kongo are standing by to check out any post-impact damage & collect meteorite samples
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-20-20 has been posted with a total of 4,621 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 36 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there were 13 known impact events last year, 7 of which occurred over water. Via extrapolation it's likely there were at least 5 additional water impacts that we did not catch, which thankfully occurred outside of regular shipping lanes. Overall impact rate less than 2018 tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these are all the impact events recorded by seismograph in 2019. Circle size represents strength but does not always correlate directly to asteroid size. A Class-E could split up and impact small bits over a wide area to create a smaller signal than an intact Class-C impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network is also vying for time on the telescope to take images of Chikelu as well, but it's polar orbit means it doesn't pass over the observatory as often as Alaba does, so it might still be a while
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite imaging several passing NKOs since it became operational at the start of 2019, the backlog of time requests for Arekibo meant that until now no orbiting moonlets had been studied via its active radar. Here at last is a look at Alaba!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PAU-875(C) has just now entered our SOI according to the latest ATN bulletin, set to pass no closer than 0.56 Munar Distance. The 2nd known asteroid this month, it joins KBE-825(B) for a brief time before that first asteroid exits our SOI later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
New orbital data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba shows that it remains on track for its next Mun intercept in early February. As always, astronomers will keep a close watch for any unexpected encounters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-13-20 has been posted with a total of 4,585 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 19 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there are plenty of eyes on this Alaba transit through Mun's SOI, its 32nd on record. It will pass 2.1Mm from the surface over the course of the next 23 minutes. It is right on time based on the prediction made back in early Oct 2019
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ops Tracker has new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba, which remains on target to predictions and will encounter Mun again this weekend before it completes one full orbit since the last encounter. It has now orbited Kerbin over 312 times since Nov 2nd, 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has begun Mun encounters for 2020 with its 31st recorded transit of our neighbor's SOI starting this minute, lasting 52m3s and passing as close as 1.7Mm to the Munar surface. Kravass (purple) is watching now & Arekibo (green) will catch it towards the end
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through our neighborhood since earlier today KBE-825(B) is the first known encounter of 2020, set to come no closer than 0.85 Munar Distance. We currently know of only 2 more on their way but based on past months that means at least 5-6 more should be discovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also, the second number under the first is from last year. Any color next to the second number represents a change in asteroid type from last year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fact that there are so many large NKOs has led some astronomers to theorize a smaller body might once have existed in a close orbit to Kerbin, which was somehow destroyed to leave behind a debris ring near us & perhaps caused the Sea Ring impact bit.ly/KSAHistory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no big surprises in the latest annual Asteroid Tracking Network survey from last year. Although more asteroids were found in the Main Belt to retake some categories, unfortunately the largest amount of Class E objects remain NKOs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
keeping near the yearly average, 11 known rocks entered our SOI in Dec. We hope to continue to see encounters trend downwards in 2020 altho when ATN North & South come online towards the end of this year, its likely the number will increase. 2019 avg passing distance was 25Mm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-6-20 has been posted with a total of 4,566 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-30-19 has been posted with a total of 4,536 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 43 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final known asteroid of December (although a few days remain to discover more), VWQ-706(C) entered our SOI earlier today to join BGW-389(C) and will make a close pass of only 4.15 Munar Distance, exiting back into Kerbolar orbit next calendar year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so far the penultimate known asteroid for December, BGW-389(C) entered our SOI earlier today after HDL-252(B) made its exit and will pass us by at no closer than 1.91 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-23-19 has been posted with a total of 4,493 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 31 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN bulletin - KGT-696(D) has just entered our SOI for a pass of 1.51 Munar Distance, joining HDL-252(B) from yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
transiting the system since earlier today, HDL-252(B) is due to pass by at no closer than 4.12 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today the ATN caught PYD-610(C) as it was already making its way down the gravity well towards us for a pass of 0.14 Munar Distance next week. It will get chucked back out into Kerbolar orbit a few days later. Thanks for visiting! But don't come back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here are some choice images of UYO-577(E) that were captured by Arekibo Radio Observatory as it tumbled by this week, captured with the best resolution of any asteroid so far. What a lumpty dumpty space rock. It is approximately 32m across
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-16-19 has been posted with a total of 4,462 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 29 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XOJ-044(A) has been swinging through our system since shortly after today began, set to come no closer than 0.48 Munar Distance. Dec is more than halfway through and we have 3 more known asteroids yet to come with time left to maybe discover some more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering earlier today, UYO-577(E) masses over 6 megatons which isn't the heaviest known to pass through but is the 12th heaviest known NKO. It's also due for a second pass at the start of Feb 2020. At both ascending/descending nodes Arekibo will be able to radar it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
heading into the weekend with a good report from Lead Engineer Simon that the rocket has passed load checks and will undergo final closeouts at the start of next week. That and more that went down this past week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10164
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS has now recognized a second type of Kupier Belt Object dubbed "Plockino", which are a group of icy asteroids that have been found to be in a similar 2:3 resonance with Neidon like Plock itself is twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has officially removed bit.ly/Zosimus from its catalog. No sign of the asteroid has been found and it likely broke apart on its last pass through the atmosphere earlier this week. Data from its encounters with our atmosphere will help improve aerobrake models
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there has been no sighting of Zosimus in the time that was given for astronomers to use the IR scope at ATN Central. They may have not been looking along the right trajectory though and its even tighter orbit could bring it around to the night side as early as tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both ATN North & South observatories remain on schedule to begin operations next year, with equipment calibration and final installment to begin next month ahead of commissioning runs beginning in Q2 2020 for both observatories
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today at 17:06 UTC almost 600km southeast of ATN Central, Zosimus began its fourth pass through the atmosphere. Astronomers are again attempting to look for it with the ATN Central IR scope for early confirmation of whether it still survived
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-9-19 has been posted with a total of 4,434 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 26 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the end of this week also brings an end to our launch furlough. Second KSP campaign is ready to bring this year to a close! More on the many celestial happenings of the past few days over at our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10134
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new update for bit.ly/Zosimus, which was already spotted still intact, still in orbit by the IR scope @ ATN Central thx to the heat being radiating after atmospheric passage & also now that astronomers had a better idea of where to look for it using data from prev passes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Still on track with the prediction from October, ATN and KAS have confirmed that this was the last encounter of Mun and bit.ly/_Alaba for 2019. We'll check back in with it next year, altho astronomers will of course still be keeping a close eye on it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has just exited Mun's SOI after its 30th recorded encounter, passing by at a distance of 1.4Mm at closest approach and taking 1h3m22s to make the transit. ATN Central (blue) was able to watch and we expect updated orbital data to be posted later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an update on the Ops Tracker for bit.ly/Zosimus gives details on its latest atmospheric pass, starting this minute ~400km south of ATN Central. Will it continue to hold true to its namesake & survive again? We'll know in a few days once it can potentially be re-observed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CJT-434(B) will be entering our SOI later today for a pass thru the outer Kerbin system, coming no closer than 3.52 Munar Distance. If we hadn't seen it coming, we would've likely not spotted it passing thru. That polar gap will be covered by ATN North/South observatories next yr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/Zosimus has been confirmed to be back on its way down for a 3rd pass through our atmosphere! Astronomers have noticed it is dimmer, tho that could simply mean it's smaller from ablation or perhaps it has accumulated sooty dark material
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN bulletin shows the trajectory to be followed by PJQ-782(D), swinging past at no closer than 0.67 Munar Distance. Although it seems December is set to rapid-fire with asteroid encounters we only know of two more so far in the mid & late month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a slightly slower month than average, with only 10 known asteroid entries to our SOI over the course of November (yearly average is ~13). Two impacted Kerbin and a third, bit.ly/Zosimus, is still possibly in orbit after two atmospheric passes so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-2-19 has been posted with a total of 4,408 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 19 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NVH-861(C) has just entered our SOI for a pass through the outer system, coming no closer than 3.03 Munar Distance. Just a rock of average size and composition and yet still of interest to astronomers given it is an elemental building block of our planetary system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LQX-179(B) is kicking off December with a bang - perhaps literally although there won't be much of anyone or anything out in the Great Empty where it will fall. If a meteor hits the ocean and no one is around to see it, does it make a splash?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several things to detail this past week - overall ops are running smooth. Rocket builds are on schedule & so is launch pad repair. R&D is quiet but that's also good in its own way. Anything you feel you might have missed can be found in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10089
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ASA has forbade flights around asteroid grazes but perhaps some pilots allowed themselves to be exorbitantly bribed. If so, none have been caught. Also no kerbs have been noted missing. No doubt any who tried & failed to be taken simply told themselves they had to be more pious
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Monolithic followers are once again trying to get airship or aircraft operators to travel to where Zosimus is predicted to enter the atmosphere as they believe this and other asteroid passes are really "Motherships" swooping past to pick up the True Believers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updated orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba. It remains on track with the prediction made back in September and its orbital period hasn't changed much so we'll see another encounter in just a few days time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the aerobrake is over an area too remote to setup monitoring stations so this plot is not entirely accurate as it is based on last-known trajectory prior to atmospheric entry. Likewise the Ops Tracker no longer shows an orbit for it because we won't have new data for several days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Zosimus has entered the atmosphere this minute for its second pass, dropping down to 54.5km at perikee and will be traveling at over 3km/s. The dip will last barely two minutes but the heat could still fracture the small rock before it escapes back into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
encounter #29 has just completed for Alaba after 1h3m33s of transit through Mun's SOI during which it came as close as 1.4Mm. It will have to swing back around to the night side later this week before astronomers can check its new trajectory. Arekibo juuust missed it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-25-19 has been posted with a total of 4,389 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 27 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QKP-729(C) entered our SOI earlier today & astronomers confirmed its impact trajectory. Although not many expeditions have been made to the polar caps, all have come back with meteorite samples because their dark composition makes them easy to spot on the bright icy surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OFU-009(A) has been captured! It's on the Ops Tracker designated bit.ly/Zosimus, ancient Kerbskrit for "viable" or "likely to survive" - which its discoverers bet on happening after its aerobrake. Unfortunately the namesake will not hold & it will eventually hit Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early end to the week, everyone is ready to kick back for the weekend after the successful end to the first Kerbal Sounding Project launch campaign. 2 more next month! Also the ASA report was released today & we have all the details in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10060
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the penultimate (known) asteroid of November, IZV-156(A), is due to enter our SOI towards the end of today and will travel through the outer Kerbin system, coming no closer than 1.73 Munar Distance as it soars "overhead"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a minor tweak to its orbit from the brief encounter this past weekend. New orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba is now available on our Ops Tracker and it remains on the predicted trajectory for its next encounter later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-18-19 has been posted with a total of 4,362 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 21 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the asteroid is now either exploded, or heading back up towards SOI exit or apokee. In either of the latter scenarios its trajectory points almost directly towards the sun. If it is coming back around in a captured orbit, it will be some days before it can be spotted again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first atmospheric pass of OFU-009(A) occurred earlier at the start of today. Despite the advance notice, not enough funding was acquired in time for astronomers to lay out any observation stations along its path, so its fate is completely unknown at this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
metallic asteroids only make up 5.65% of those on similar orbits to XAS-593(C) (Inner family) and taking nearly 3 years to find one crossing Kerbin's orbit bodes well, as far fewer are likely to be out there than was feared by astronomers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has announced discovery of the first metallic NKO, XAS-593(C). This is an object from the Main Belt family that has been put into a more eccentric orbit thanks to Jool than now crosses paths with Kerbin. It would hit harder than normal stony NKOs in orbits similar to ours
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UYT-186(C) is the latest asteroid to tumble into our system, joining two other known asteroids. It will pass no closer than 2.71 Munar Distance. Past halfway through November, only 2 more known asteroids are on track for our sphere of influence
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
encounter #28 took place earlier today for Alaba as the scopes at ATN Central kept an eye on its quick 14m37s transit through Mun's SOI, passing 2.1Mm from the munar surface. We expect an orbital data update from the Kerbal Astronomical Society in the next day or two
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FCJ-191(E) has just entered our SOI for a very close fly-by of only 0.02 Munar Distance. Will make a good target for any amateur astronomers who have yet to spot an asteroid (don't get excited, it's just a brighter "star" but still a challenge to find among all the others)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OFU-009(A) is now in-system and projections based on what limited data we have collected from previous atmospheric events suggests it will travel back out into Kerbolar orbit after a short aerobrake pass. We'll find out sometime next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
later today will see the entry of QRG-858(B), which will pass by "below" us at no closer than 2.71 Munar Distance on its otherwise lonely journey through the vast emptiness of spaaaaaaaaaaaaace
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CXV-620(E) has just made its entry into our SOI for a swing through our current bubble of space, coming no closer than 3.44 Munar Distance along the way. Originally expected to make another pass later this year, updated observationsshow it actually won't be back for at least 37yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-11-19 has been posted with a total of 4,341 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 45 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two asteroid impact near-misses to populated areas occured around this date back in 2018 and 2017. Thankfully so far that's all we've had to deal with but as surface exploration & colonization grows in coming years this threat could increase if impact rate remain steady
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comparative analysis is still underway to determine why Vieras and Alaba eventually fall off their projected orbits after several Mun encounters - the number varies. We don't expect complete accuracy, but we're working with the KSPTOT dev to achieve better accuracy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no adverse reports from maritime vessels regarding DUH-402(C), which likely impacted the water surface but any waves it generated wouldn't be dangerous out at sea. A large wave advisory is in place for today at KSC but impacts tend to produce smaller waves than low airbursts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after VNQ-400(D) exploded mid-air and sunk a ship last month (unkerbed monitoring vessel) the Maritime Service has put stricter enforcement on ships sticking to trade routes so any missing vessels can be located easier for possible crew rescue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed the impact trajectory of DUH-402(C), which entered our SOI earlier today. Coming down over the major shipping route between Umbarg and Sheltered Rock means maritime vessels will hold outside this area to 100km until any danger has passed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AUK-605(C) joined GUN-433(C) earlier today, transiting our SOI and coming no closer than 4.53 Munar Distance as it does so. They will both exit back into Kerbolar orbit on the same day. Neither is expected to return anytime soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
9 known asteroids swung past in October, with one on a direct impact trajectory and another grazing through our atmosphere & exploding. Totaling 11, this remains on par for the yearly average. November could see a similar number, currently 8 are known
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-4-19 has been posted with a total of 4,296 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not gunning for us, GUN-433(C) has just entered our SOI and will pass wide at 1.51 Munar Distance closest approach. The first known asteroid of November will be followed by at least 7 more before the month is out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming back around to the night side of its orbit since the last encounter, new observations have been taken of bit.ly/_Alaba to provide updated trajectory information in the Ops Tracker. It remains on target for its next encounter in mid-November
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN Alert! OFU-009(A) has been discovered on a trajectory that will graze through our atmosphere, coming 50-60km above the surface. We'll know more precisely after it enters our SOI on 11/14. Chances of an aerocapture are better than VNQ-400(D), but still unsure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RVO-778(C) is the final known asteroid of October, soaring far overhead along a trajectory that will bring it no closer than 4.15 Munar Distance. Still two days left to possibly discover some more however. No doubt they are out there...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-28-19 has been posted with a total of 4,266 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 47 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
encounter #27 is beginning this minute for Alaba, which will pass 1.4Mm from Mun at periapsis and exit back out into Kerbin orbit after 1h2m21s of transit through its SOI. It will be re-observed after ascending node over the night side in a few days for a trajectory update
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI, OTY-011(E) will come no closer than 0.09 Munar Distance, which is still pretty close and although it won't complete an orbit before visiting us again in early Feb it will thankfully do so ~30x further away on its next pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QVK-554(A), just now entering our SOI, is the asteroid of today we wish were coming closer so a better optical image of the colored patches on its surface could be taken. Alas, it will venture no nearer than 3.91 Munar Distance and is only a few meters across
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network dispatches don't come out of KSC, so we know LST-073(A) has just recently entered our SOI for a lazy tumble through the system over the remainder of the month, coming no closer than 0.58 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR (it is a lot to take in) - our current stance is to work to determine all the details of how this attack was carried out and put in place measures to prevent future attempts. We are not backing down nor is any action yet able to be taken against those responsible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - a sect of violent Monolithic followers remains set against our space-bound ambitions even after being secretly banished to the other side of the planet by religious leaders, where they happened upon a large unknown population of kerbs receptive to "salvation"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while a lot of work remains in the investigation, all parties involved feel a point has been reached where we can release a statement not only on the events of this past week but the events of the past few years that led up to this brazen attack: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9965
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-21-19 has been posted with a total of 4,219 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 17 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI a few hours ago, latest ATN dispatch has BBZ-439(D) passing through with a closest approach of 2.40 Munar Distance, joining two other asteroids currently known to be in the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PLP-295(C) means no one no harm, having just entered our SOI for a tumble "up" through the outer system, coming no closer than 5.06 Munar Distance as it does so over the next few days. Past halfway thru Oct, just 5 remaining known asteroids so far discovered for the month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PVT-846(B) has just entered our SOI and astronomers have already confirmed its impact trajectory, which will put it almost smack dab in the middle of the Big Nothing - the mariner name for the largest expanse of empty sea. No threat to surface operations expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the western MSV was able to visually track the fireball before it disappeared over the horizon, all the best data is now at the bottom of the ocean. Apparently some concerns were raised over the proximity of the monitoring vessel but not enough it seems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 of the 3 observation boats have sailed back into port in Umbarg and report that megaton VNQ-400(D) exploded low in the atmosphere - both could hear the explosion. The shockwave was so intense in fact no trace of the unkerbed monitoring vessel was found. It must have sunk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VNQ-400(D) should be screaming through the atmosphere now at speeds in excess of 3km/s - observation vessels moved into position yesterday but are out of comms range - we should have a report later today on what happened
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/_Alaba now has updated orbital data based on observations taken since its last encounter with Mun earlier this week. It continues to stick to the predicted trajectory but that doesn't mean astronomers aren't still keeping a close eye on it when they can
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PSA: VNQ-400(D) will NOT present any sort of danger to kerbs working on the surface, even if it impacts or explodes during its pass through the atmosphere. You do not need to buy an Asteroid Survival Kit. These are scams! The air quality will remain just fine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has confirmed VNQ-400(D)'s trajectory after it entered our SOI earlier today. It will pass through our atmosphere to a depth of 9.3km and maritime vessels will be positioned along its path to observe & report
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-14-19 has been posted with a total of 4,202 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 31 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba encountered Mun earlier today for its 26th recorded pass. Arekibo (green) saw it enter Mun's SOI but after a 55m33s transit that came only 1.6Mm to the Munar surface it exited into daylight and won't be seen again until it swings around to ascending node later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another productive week behind us, we hope you all can say the same. Recap what went on in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9932 Have a great & relaxing weekend, everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just entering our SOI now is another skimmer - XKY-807(C) will come no closer than 5.10 Munar Distance as it slowly tumbles through over the next few days. Just because it's way out there doesn't always mean it is moving slower since its orbit is hyperbolic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have predicted Alaba's future orbital motion out to early 2020, checking for missed SOI detections. The largest change is radial movement - by encounter #35 its trajectory will be nearing Mun's SOI on the ascending node as well and encounters will become more frequent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
images released from the Arekibo Radio Observatory show EFD-736(C) slowly tumbling at a rate of about 1 revolution every two minutes. All asteroids are spinning, some so fast astronomers suspect they could break apart, though none like that have yet been discovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Asteroid Tracking Network has discovered asteroids crossing the orbits of every planet in the system, which means any of these could enter that planet's SOI and some do within the next few, dozen or hundreds of years. This is a rough breakdown as of today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IHI-869(A), which entered our SOI at the beginning of today, will not be much of a bother as it skims through the outer system, coming no closer than 5.70 Munar Distance. This is October's 3rd known asteroid & we expect to remain at a normal average ~12 tracked this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are still going over all the data they collected on Vieras and will fully analyze how its trajectory changes messed with their long-term predictions but in the meanwhile here's an overview of its orbital progression over 8 recorded encounters with Mun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-7-19 has been posted with a total of 4,171 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 17 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EFD-736(C) has just entered our SOI, set for a close pass of just 0.30 Munar Distance next week before being slung back out into Kerbolar orbit. Arekibo plans to take observations of it and release some new radar images
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weekend, ho! October is only just getting started and we already have plenty of things to talk in more depth about in our weekly Ops Summary, so check it out - kerbalspace.agency/?p=9885 everyone have a relaxing weekend & try to take some time to gaze up at the night sky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and then there were two. bit.ly/_Tantalus has left the system, leaving only Alaba & Chikelu as our current known moonlets. Amateur astronomers have been helping hunt to see if there are any more currently in orbit we haven't spotted yet. None are known to be on their way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#ICYMI here is a real-time view of Vieras impacting Kerbin. It's easy to forget with the slow pace of current orbits displayed the Ops Tracker actually updates them all once per second! Vieras' legacy will remain in the lessons learned predicting large trajectory changes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
welcome to the first known asteroid of October to come tumbling through our SOI. JEK-301(C) has just made its entrance for a sashay through the outer system over the next several days before returning to sun-centric orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now Vieras has either impacted Kerbin's surface as a whole or broken up in the atmosphere and rained down in smaller pieces. There may be an expedition launched one day to find out - many possible impact locations in the southern hemisphere have yet to be investigated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
update to bit.ly/Vieras has details on its impact trajectory, which has been confirmed for Oct 4th, the same day that Tantalus is scheduled to be ejected from the system. There is no hazard to surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 60m dish will be built in late 2020/early 2021 once the North & South ATN/DSN complexes are complete and operational. The 18m dishes will be installed as needed to handle increasing orbital traffic and relieve the 27m dishes for deep space missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
let's have a look at the various communication dishes in use (or planned to be) around Kerbin. When deep space missions come around, we plan to work out a way to combine our three 7m dishes for greater reception rather than just upgrade them to bigger sizes - initially anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's the moment of truth for Vieras as it encounters Mun for the 9th recorded pass, which after flying by at just 260km and exiting in 1h34m should place it on a trajectory that will impact Kerbin's southern hemisphere. We will know for sure later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another unremarkably average month to add to the year with 14 tracked asteroids, 1 of which impacted. Not that we are complaining! With ever-increasing surface activity a lower amount of falling space rocks to worry about is a trend we hope continues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Tantalus confirms its escape trajectory. The orbit is not hyperbolic, so you can still see it in the Ops Tracker and if you turn on SOIs you'll see where it exits. It will also show up if you plot out the trajectory on the surface map
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now Tantalus has entered Mun's SOI for its 1st recorded pass since discovery late last year. After passing as close as 1.8Mm and exiting 2h58m from now it will likely be on an escape trajectory back into Kerbolar orbit. ATN will have an update tomorrow, Arekibo is tracking
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-30-19 has been posted with a total of 4,154 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 32 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news: looking closely through the orbital data propagated forward from May's observations we can see this event, the automated algorithm just didn't pick it up. So only a bug that needs fixing, not an error in our understanding of orbital mechanics *phew*
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updated orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba - thankfully despite earlier confidence in predictions astronomers still kept a close eye on it and saw it dip into Mun's SOI yesterday. How this was missed in May's 5-encounter prediction has been investigated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final known asteroid of September, SPH-998(E) is now in the process of transiting our SOI, coming no closer than 2.87 Munar Distance as it does so. Tumble on, lonely space rock - trouble us not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FQT-931(A) has been confirmed to be on an impact trajectory, potentially splashing down northwest of the Arekibo Radio Observatory. Although only a few meters in size, Class-A asteroids can still pack a wallop - but Arekibo sits 1.6km above sea level & is in no danger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unknown if the asteroid will be areocaptured. It has happened before, twice (bit.ly/Pilirani & bit.ly/LPL-416_E) and also not happened (bit.ly/QEF-511_C). Nothing's ever skimmed this deep before & most astronomers think it won't survive the stress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert! VNQ-400(D), discovered today, is on a trajectory to dip down into our atmosphere as low as just 4-5km next month. We will have a better idea of its perikee when it enters our SOI on October 14th. Nobody panic, event should be contained to the southern hemisphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all hail the week end! Rocketry crews will be enjoying a well-earned break next week before the lead up to the next launch in October. See what else has transpired and get more information via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9834
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLP-545(D) is now in our SOI for a closest pass of 3.88 Munar Distance over the remainder of this month, which will still see two more known asteroids passing through, keeping the total count on par for the year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been published for bit.ly/_Alaba, which remains on track for the encounter in early November predicted back in May. Astronomers pleased to see their long-term predictions finally starting to become more accurate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network reports that TUV-075(E) is the latest aimless space rock to enter our SOI minutes ago and will just skim through the outer system approaching no closer than 6.20 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that's ATN Central with a view of Alaba as it begins its 24th recorded encounter with Mun. It will take 30m28s to pass through, coming as close as 2Mm which is only ~500km deep into its SOI. It will not be observed again until later this week passing through ascending node
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest ATN dispatch has AOC-480(B) traveling through our SOI since earlier today. It will swing past us at no closer than 0.79 Munar Distance before tumbling back off into the black vastness of space, naught to return for at least the next 28 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-23-19 has been posted with a total of 4,112 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 21 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more about today's decision to delay the Mk2 orbital attempt in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9801 Have a great weekend everyone, and we look forward to this one especially at KSC. Anyone know why?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the current record holder, if observations after 1yr are accurate, has an eccentricity of 0.000000000000569 which equates to less than a meter's difference between apkelion and perikelion. Of course, it could be unseated by other discoveries that haven't yet been observed as long
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerbal Astronomical Society has recognized a new sub-class of KBO bodies. "Protysmals" are the most pristine samples of the early Kerbolar system, out beyond Plock in nearly-perfect circular orbits with less than 0.0000000001 eccentricity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HMZ-448(C) is now also in the system, following closely the trajectory of HMZ-748(C) - so close that they've purposely received similar designations and are considered by astronomers to be a pair, possibly a Class-E asteroid that has split in two. A first, if confirmed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network dispatch reports that from recent observations astronomers remain confident in the trajectory of bit.ly/_Tantalus, which is likely now on its last orbit around Kerbin before encountering Mun on 9/30 and exiting the system in early October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HMZ-748(C) has just entered our gravitational influence for a skim through the outer system, coming no closer than 5.78 Munar Distance - and it's not alone. Another Class-C asteroid is right behind it on a similar trajectory & we should have another ATN notice in ~4hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a discovery announced earlier today by the ATN was a comet that has been plotted to whiz through our SOI at 5.57MD traveling at nearly 8km/s. This is why comets can be so dangerous. Thankfully their long orbits also help - this pass is not until the year 2297!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-16-19 has been posted with a total of 4,091 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 34 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YTJ-660(E) entered our SOI earlier today and while you'd think it's nice to see it passing so far away, the smaller the nudge over the vast distance it will travel before coming around again means a better chance it will swing closer & maybe hit us. Ignorance can be bliss...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
.@1WGdpIziY4 it is a Class-D so it has the potential to cause localized damage to a few hundred square kilometers depending on whether it impacts or air bursts. Current projections show it will likely affect the southern hemisphere though and be no danger to any surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS has new orbital data posted for bit.ly/Vieras and it looks like it may be flung into Kerbin after its next encounter on Oct 2nd! Although past predictions one encounter away have proven to be accurate, some still believe that it will be sticking around until 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wrap it up folks, weekend is here! Get caught up on all our operations this past week with additional details via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9767 it's been mostly crummy weather all week so let's all hope for a turn-around this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Vieras should be encountering Mun this minute for its 8th recorded pass, nearly over the terminator right now in between observatories but will soon be picked up by Ockr and then Kravass to watch it exit @ 11:36:51 UTC. It will skim just 353km past Mun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
STN-515(C) is just another average-sized asteroid now swooping through our SOI. Seen coming in "from the side" like this means its sun-centric orbit is similar to ours at low inclination but either further or nearer to the sun - more eccentric, in other words
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LHT-955(C) made its entry into our SOI at the beginning of today, making a highly-inclined 91° pass through our system. This large inclination is viewed relative to our own - when in orbit around the sun at a larger distance this asteroid's inclination is only 3°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is the anniversary for the discovery of bit.ly/Vieras. Over the course of a year it has completed more than 90 orbits around Kerbin and traveled nearly 10,000,000km. Original projections state it could be sticking around a bit longer until mid-2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-9-19 has been posted with a total of 4,057 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 14 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest Asteroid Tracking Network dispatch has UNY-747(C) just now entering our Sphere of Influence. It will pass by at no closer than 1.05 Munar Distance and if Mun was nearby at the time it would encounter its SOI as well, which extends out with a radius of 2,430km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VFS-359(C) began its travels through our SOI earlier today and will pass by at closest approach of 0.30 Munar Distance. It joins 1 other asteroid currently known to be in the system - there are likely more out there we haven't spotted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we watched 14 asteroids go whizzing past in August, with one atmospheric entry - close to the current record for the year of 16 in Feb & Mar. September is looking to remain on average with 10-14 known tumblers expected over the next few weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already another interloper passing through our SOI, YAB-114(C) came about earlier today and will come no closer than 0.58 Munar Distance. The start of another busy month? We expect a report from the ATN later today on August's activity and September's outlook
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first known asteroid of September, IFC-780(B) has just been reported by the ATN to have entered our SOI, set to pass no closer than 2.48 Munar Distance as it "rises" up through the outer Kerbin system over this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-2-19 has been posted with a total of 4,043 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 38 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba shows it to remain right on the trajectory predicted 3 encounters ago back in May. The fact that it's still accurate whereas Vieras drifts after 2 encounters have astronomers looking at the amount of change to the Kerbin-centric orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2017 bit.ly/-Remises, our 3rd recorded captured moonlet, exited the Kerbin system after orbiting our planet 60 times (hover cursor over the orbital period) during which we saw it encounter Mun 5 times. We still do not expect it to return anytime in the next 28 yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
how big is space? CMY-137(C) is an inner asteroid that was discovered yesterday to be intersecting the orbits of Eve, Kerbin and Duna. Over the next 119 years, during which it will orbit the sun 100 times, it never even passes through any of their SOIs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba is about to encounter Mun for its 23rd recorded pass, taking 48m58s to transit its SOI coming as close as 1.7Mm at perimun. Arekibo will track it during the daytime via radar to check its new position and there should be an update posted tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbal Astronomical Society have published updated orbital data through the Asteroid Tracking Network for bit.ly/Vieras - details on orbital accuracy included. It will pass through Mun's SOI again on 9/13 for its closest pass ever, which will significantly alter its orbit - but it will remain bound to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EGQ-543(C) is soaring high "overhead" right now as it transits our SOI into next month, coming no closer than 5.28 Munar Distance (Kerbin's SOI extends out to 7.01 MD)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
leaving August behind and pushing forward into September! Check out all the exciting stuff that happened this past week in our Ops Summary and have yourself a pleasant weekend everyone! kerbalspace.agency/?p=9606
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN bulletin from earlier today during the mission notes the discovery of LJF-065(C) currently transiting our SOI, set to skim by at just 0.02 Munar Distance. Being so close, it's actually harder for Arekibo to see it due to its limited range of only 12° from zenith
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is a scale comparison between RGD-323(C) and ZUW-310(A), both recently imaged by the Arekibo Radio Observatory. Class A asteroids tend to be ~5-7m in diameter with Class C's being ~3x larger while Class E's can be over 2x larger than Class C's
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Vieras' orbit is now over the night side and it's in view of several major observatories for its 1h26m transit through Mun's SOI, the 7th on record. It will pass 922km over the surface at perimun. KAS should have updated orbital data to share by the end of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-26-19 has been posted with a total of 4,005 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 19 asteroids that were discovered this past week, all within the inner system. More exist in outer than inner, but are harder to see
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EFD-262(C) is one of three remaining known asteroids to come tumbling through our SOI this month. It will pass us at no closer than 0.39 Munar Distance. (did you know, MD is a measurement from the *center* of Kerbin to the center of Mun? Not surface to surface)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
about an hour ago ESA-390(C) entered our SOI for the second time since it was discovered back in March. It will be passing at no closer than 4.19 Munar Distance which is thankfully much further than its original 0.14 MD visit. No 3rd pass has yet been predicted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QEW-736(A) is kicking the weekend off, tumbling into our SOI just now and set to pass by at a closest approach of 0.19 Munar Distance. Look again, it's heading away from your viewpoint not towards you. We still hope to someday have these in the Ops Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI earlier today, ZUW-310(A) will make a low-inclination pass through the system and shall be a nice target for Arekibo to really stretch its capabilities at imaging a small target. It will fly no closer than 1.24 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest Asteroid Tracking Network dispatch has SXH-070(E) just now entering our SOI, set to pass through our region of gravitational influence at no closer than 0.55 Munar Distance over the next few days. Pop quiz: what other factor besides planet mass determines SOI size?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
besides the massive 200m dish at Arekibo, the ATN Central Observatory is also planning to have their 60m dish installed and active in late 2020, which will allow for longer tracking & greater sky coverage when working in conjunction with Arekibo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Arekibo Radio Observatory took a look at RGD-323(C) as it is traversing through the system. Img intensity shows areas that reflect back the strongest waves, both due to surface material & angle of the terrain. Slowly tumbling, each img is a diff part of the asteroid's surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-19-19 has been posted with a total of 3,986 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there are 4 known moonlets of Kerbin at the moment, and you can always see where they are in the bit.ly/OpsTracker_Ker… but don't forget one was discovered by accident (kerbalspace.agency/?p=2555) so maybe there's one or more up there we haven't spotted yet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RGD-323(C) entered our SOI late yesterday, passing with only 8° inclination and giving the Arekibo observatory a nice target to bounce radio waves off of as it swings by at no closer than 0.44 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN/DSN South & North construction are both proceeding well for 2020. North remains behind schedule but hasn't fallen back further. All the buildings on both sites are complete & now the arduous process of getting all the delicate equipment up there will occupy the next 6 months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
late yesterday is when ICT-520(C) rambled into the system, setting up for a close approach of 1.67 Munar Distance before heading back off into the vast deepness of space, nought to return for at least another 32 years, during which it will orbit the sun 100 times
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Along this way comes MSK-299(C), passing by "overhead" with a closest approach of 1.53 Munar Distance. The month is halfway thru and there are still 8 more known asteroids on course to intercept our SOI before September, with perhaps 2-3 more that will be discovered in that time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IHY-100(D) has just entered our Sphere of Influence, now briefly captured by the gravity of Kerbin. It will pass through the outer system over the remainder of the week, coming no closer than 3.17 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DUO-789(E) entered our SOI yesterday and astronomers have since observed and confirmed its intended impact location, should it survive to reach the surface. No maritime or surface operations are in danger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-12-19 has been posted with a total of 3,956 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 26 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IBG-928(B) has just made its entry into our SOI, tumbling past at no closer than 0.09 Munar Distance. It sweeps nearly overtop Arekibo at perikee but unfortunately not close enough overtop - it's so close it falls out of the radio scope's narrow field of view
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we pass opposition with Dres today. When looking at the kerbol system edge-on, you can see how much "lower" it is at the moment. This is what allowed astronomers to pick out all the ring moonlets in their recent observations from the past few months, and the coming few
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just a few minutes prior to tomorrow will see the entry of JVY-457(E) into our SOI, making a relatively close pass of 0.93 Munar Distance - visible to amateur scopes if anyone wants a challenging observation target
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NBV-462(C) has just entered our SOI and will pass by at no closer than 2.35 Munar Distance as it tumbles through over the remainder of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-5-19 has been posted with a total of 3,930 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 43 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/Vieras shows an intercept on 8/27 12s later than when using orbital data from both encounters in June. Will be interesting to see which is closer when the time comes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are working hard towards our next rocket launches - check our Ops Summary to see what we did this week towards that end and get a preview of the next three Ascension missions: kerbed Mk1, unkerbed Mk1 and unkerbed Mk2 kerbalspace.agency/?p=9483
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
12 asteroids continues to be the monthly norm in 2019, although August could see a noticeable uptick with 12 asteroids already known to be passing through over the next month, with one of those set to impact the water far from any surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Vieras should have exited Mun's SOI within the past minute, it will pass over the north pole and scopes will pick it up again as it passes through descending node. Will need additional observations over the next few days thx to polar orbit so update hopefully by this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
orbital data for Vieras from the beginning and middle of June intercepts both accurately predicted the encounter starting this minute, the 6th known pass of the moonlet through Mun's SOI, which will last approximately 1h8m passing 1,588.691km from the surface at perimun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the team was able to constrain the orbits of 12 moonlets, which form a loose ring around the planet all with inclinations <0.01° - which means Dres may have had a moon at some point - maybe two? Astronomers are eager to gather more data over the coming year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another astronomical mystery surfaces with the results from an extended observation campaign of Dres, which concluded in June and the results just published today. The team is already looking to book more time on the 10m ATN Central scope twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
August was only minutes old when TCE-488(C) came tumbling into our Sphere of Influence, briefly captured by Kerbin's gravity. It will pass no closer than 0.23 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even orbiting near us, a smaller planet than Dres could have been missed back before astronomy was a thing prior to the impact. Main gaps in the theory called out by detractors are 1) where are the other big chunks besides the one that hit us & 2) how could it have broken apart?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Arekibo sits on the site of the impact that nearly wiped out kerbal civilization. Majority of meteorites match its resulting unique keological composition. Unlikely they are returning ejecta, which means they were already up there - from a broken-up larger body smaller than Dres?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the scientific community has been divided by a controversial paper published this week. Analysis of meteorites recovered so far has found a match with rocks that were excavated during Arekibo construction. Have we been getting pelted by the remains of a planet!?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-29-19 has been posted with a total of 3,887 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 23 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CUE-959(D) is now in-system & is the last known rock to be coming by in July. We're sure we still haven't been able to track everything tumbling through our SOI, so likely more out there at the moment as well. It will come no closer than 0.68 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after waiting a day to ensure it was safe, an airship was dispatched to check out any effects of FOE-439(D). No crater was found but evidence of minor flooding in the colony site means it likely hit the water west of the initial entry point. Work will resume in a few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the red orbit in the inner system diagram is not a mistake - that's a comet that intersects Kerbin's orbit therefore is designated a NKO. Comets are very dangerous due to their high relative velocities. Thankfully this one shows no close fly-bys in the next 375 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-22-19 has been posted with a total of 3,864 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 14 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FOE-439(D) entered our SOI earlier today & astronomers have confirmed its trajectory. Surface activity at the colony site is minor still but being pulled out as a precaution. Luckily, the asteroid appears to mass well under the avg 400t for a class D, which can reach megaton mass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZYU-913(C) was discovered over the weekend already in system and has recently exited back into kerbolar orbit. During periapsis pass it came as close as 0.35 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-15-19 has been posted with a total of 3,850 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 27 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OQT-575(C) has just entered our SOI just over an hour ago and won't be sticking around very long as it skips through the outer system edge with a closest approach of only 6.44 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cruising SW along the coast @ 4.5km, peering through the morning haze you can barely see the still-visible scar of the asteroid impact in 2018 that so far has come the closest to directly affecting operations at KSC. You can read about it in this timeline: twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
set to come no closer than 1.77 Munar Distance, HMH-412(C) entered our SOI early today to join three other known asteroids currently transiting through the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this ATN bulletin got lost in the shuffle of yesterday's mission. HIX-615(C) entered our SOI yesterday and will pass no closer than 4.56 Munar Distance as it tumbles through the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second asteroid bulletin of the day sees GZT-722(C) set to make a pass no closer than 0.67 Munar Distance. These diagrams are best angled to give you spatial reference for the movement of the asteroid and never positioned in reference to any fixed point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VEO-520(C) has made its entry into our SOI within the past few minutes and will be scooting "underneath" us at no closer than 1.01 Munar Distance - If Mun had been in the right place... wait, no - improper inclination. There are many factors to positions in space!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-8-19 has been posted with a total of 3,823 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
large asteroid HSJ-347(E) has tumbled into our system and thankfully will mind its own business, passing no closer than 1.63 Munar Distance as it travels through and back out into kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DTH-989(C) is now within our SOI and will be zipping past us at just 0.06 Munar Distance, the closest known pass so far this month although the closest known pass this year remains 453km (0.04 MD) back in Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the comet has indeed been located, not quite where astronomers expected it to be but within a respectable margin of error. This bodes well for future deep space missions that will rely on Jool for gravitational assists that will fly much closer to the massive planet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN monthly report shows a greater variation in sizes in June but otherwise another average count of 12 space rocks, with one atmospheric entry. 8 are already expected for July rather than the 6 at the start of past months so we may see a slight uptick in activity this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DOV-077(C) joins yesterday's entry of DOJ-065(B) but will be passing a bit closer at 2.09 Munar Distance. It will nick Minmus' orbit but the moon won't be nearby to affect its trajectory. So far only two known asteroids have or will pass through Minmus' SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
July isn't wasting any time, with DOJ-065(B) tumbling into our SOI just now for a 4.07 Munar Distance pass through the outer reaches of our system. ATN will release their monthly report tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-1-19 has been posted with a total of 3,793 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 31 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USJ-657(C) entered our SOI yesterday & astronomers have confirmed its trajectory into our atmosphere. This is yet another red blip on yesterday's map of encounters that could have affected us had Kerbin's rotation been different
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
currently only two other surface settlements other than us are also in danger of this risk. We have no doubt more surface settlements will come about and we hope to someday have the capability to be able to prevent any asteroid disasters from befalling them or us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the image does not take into account any asteroids we didn't know about that landed in the water or burned up in the atmosphere and weren't picked up by seismic sensors, which is probably about at least half more as many that are shown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC is always under threat from asteroids and so far we have simply been lucky Kerbin wasn't facing the right direction for any more than one of these entries to have fallen nearer to us to cause possible damage or affect operations since they began back in late 2016
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering into our Sphere of Influence, GFH-677(C) will sail overhead at 3.87 Munar Distance closest approach as it skims through the outer reaches of the Kerbin system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba shows it still to be right on track for its 3rd predicted encounter at the end of August. We'll see then if things start to deviate as they did with Vieras
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BYR-529(A) is a yellow-glowing asteroid that has just crossed into our SOI, set to pass by at 0.59 Munar Distance. Unfortunately on its closest flyby of the 10m ATN Central scope they will not have darkness to observe it for any better photos
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upstaged by today's launch operations, here is bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-24-19 with a total of 3,762 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 36 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today saw entry of both FOG-293(C), coming no closer than 2.91 Munar Distance & IOM-511(C), coming no closer than 0.92 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KYY-336(C) has just entered our SOI, set to swing by at a closest approach of 0.42 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GLA-230(B) will be entering our SOI later near the end of today, making a pass of 1.67 Munar Distance. 6th known asteroid of the month, with 5 more so far discovered to come in this second half puts June on the average pace for the year so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/Vieras - now 3 encounters into the prediction made back in Feb astronomers have already noted a deviation with this recent encounter occurring 34s later than expected. Details in the updated vessel information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba - this was the first encounter of the new 5-encounter prediction made last month and was accurate to the second, as is the next encounter set for 6/23
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-17-19 has been posted with a total of 3,726 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 43 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LYQ-172(C) entered our SOI yesterday & astronomers have since confirmed its potential impact area, which will present no danger to any surface operations. Any waves it might generate with a water impact won't endanger Arekibo, which sits high enough to remain safe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
near the end of today Vieras will perform its 5th known Mun encounter, taking 1h16m to pass through Mun's SOI with a perimun of 1.2Mm. Again over Kerbin's daylit side, Arekibo will partially track it before it's lost over the north pole & picked up again tomorrow by normal scopes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now at 1.6Mm perimun, Alaba is halfway through its 21st recorded Mun encounter. Over Kerbin's daylit side, it's within sight of Arekibo's radar for tracking. ATN Central will pick it up as it exits Mun's SOI after a 55min transit to confirm the new orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PEB-286(B) was discovered today on its way out of the system after passing us by at just 0.27 Munar Distance over the past weekend. It will exit back into kerbolar orbit tomorrow and won't be back through our neighborhood for at least the next 30 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-10-19 has been posted with a total of 3,683 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 31 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because its trajectory is polar and now almost right atop the terminator, observation is difficult but astronomers have finally constrained the new orbit for bit.ly/Vieras. It continues to work its way inward as expected and will encounter Mun again late on 6/15
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JJZ-595(D) has just joined HRU-559(C) & BRD-781(D) in our system but will be leaving before both of them, skimming the outer reaches of our gravitational influence with a close approach of only 5.73 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HRU-559(C) has just tumbled into our SOI for a far-out pass of 4.97 Munar Distance. Nothing to worry about - unless it's going to come back afterwards. Historically, the ones further out have come closer on their second pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
say hello to our first known asteroid of June - BRD-781(D) was actually only discovered today and is certainly making quite the entrance being that it will skim past us at only 0.04 Munar Distance - closer than some rocket payloads we've launched! But no danger to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are doing the best they can, mainly w/IR scopes, to keep an eye on Vieras as it makes its 4th recorded Mun encounter right now, passing 2Mm @ perimun & exiting after a 32min transit. Its orbit is almost aligned w/terminator so new orbit observations will be a few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
12 known asteroids again this past month, which remains on par with the average rate we had back in 2017. 2018 was a busier year. Off then on again? Only more time & data will tell. Looking ahead for June, we expect 6 so far so similar numbers should be posted next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-3-19 has been posted with a total of 3,652 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 30 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we doubled-checked with the ATN and no, not yet. They did say that one that passed by Kerbin at just around 12Mm so if Mun *had* been there at the time...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today will see entry of the final known asteroid for May - DQF-086(C) will be making its 2nd visit after first being discovered in Oct 2017 and passing at 3.09 Munar Distance later in December. This pass will be at a further 4.02 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SBZ-679(C) is the penultimate known asteroid of May, just now entering for its pass through our SOI. It will make a relatively close flyby of just 0.14 Munar Distance over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-27-19 has been posted with a total of 3,622 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 28 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/Vieras, set for another Mun encounter on June 4th that will continue to lower its apokee. if predictions hold true, it should be sticking around until early 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerman Observatory in Kravass and then ATN Central are keeping an eye on Vieras as it makes its 3rd known encounter with Mun, taking 1h13m to transit its SOI coming as close as 1,191km to the surface. We should have updated orbital data over the weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering into our SOI just now, EFH-949(C) will cruise through the outer Kerbin system, passing no closer than 4.65 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as we said - the latter half of this month will be more active. New SOI entry just announced for FOQ-468(C), set to make a relatively close flyby of just 0.11 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
included in the same ATN bulletin, making its entry earlier today, TDF-249(C) will pass us by this week at no closer than 1.67 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RDQ-432(D) has just begun its journey through our Sphere of Influence, where Kerbin's gravity has more pull than the sun's. It will pass by us at no closer than 1.25 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just entering our SOI now is XKC-165(C), set for a polar close approach of 1.07 Munar Distance. It's glowing, but as it passes the equator where the new 10m scope can view it, the distance will be too great for any better images to be made
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-20-19 has been posted with a total of 3,594 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 44 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another arrival in the early hours of the day - that's just the way the orbital mechanics work out for this point in our orbit around Kerbol relative to the common orbits of most NKOs - QXS-915(C) will come no closer than 1.62 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today brings another early arrival, NZB-332(C) is already a few hours into its passage through the outer edge of our SOI, set to come no closer than 5.85 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JIN-031(C) has been traveling through our SOI since early today and will be coming no closer than 1.68 Munar Distance. Only the third known asteroid so far, the second half of this month is busier, with six additional ones detected as of today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-13-19 has been posted with a total of 3,551 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 39 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are all still reeling from the events of yesterday. Aldeny will be a sorely missed ray of sunshine around campus - his energetic personality could motivate anyone. Altho it's hard, we must push on in his memory. Our Ops Summary has details on that: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9083
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CVH-572(C), entering our SOI late yesterday, is only the second known asteroid so far to cross the system this month. It will make a relatively close pass of just 0.12 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS has completed its next set of Alaba orbital predictions. Turns out there are 5 more encounters over the next 181 days, similar to the 5 previous ones over 171 days. So we will see if the 5th encounter still holds true this time by the end of this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-6-19 has been posted with a total of 3,512 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 22 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one day we'll have spacecraft in orbit that can confirm such events, either directly or by their after-effects. In this case, the dust will likely fall into the ocean and create a super bloom of microscopic plant life feeding off the nutrients within it. Ain't life amazing?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have returned from a successful mission with no report of being directly affected by an asteroid impact. They did note the sky took on a reddish tinge from dust however as they were leaving so it seems there was an impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS will do another long-term prediction of the same length as the last one (over time, not by # of encounters) to see if the same period leads to a similar deviation in the timing of events. If so, something minor is still not being accounted for in modeling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba. Being able to directly observe it, the encounter happened nearly 7min later than predicted back at the end of last year. The new trajectory has the moonlet not meeting Mun again until 6/15 instead of 5/9
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at Mun over the VAB just a few minutes ago when Alaba entered it's SOI for a 45min transit. This is the 20th recorded pass of the moonlet past Mun and the Kerbal Astronomical Society will have updated orbital information published tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NWL-492(C) has been skimming through our SOI since late yesterday after being discovered only hours earlier and will come no closer than 6.39 Munar Distance today, tumbling back out into kerbolar orbit tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
focus for construction will now shift fully to the North and South observatories, which will be big additions to the astronomical community in their own right as they will have IR capabilities and be able to watch the polar skies. Both are slated to be complete in 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new scope can be used to observe known asteroids but will not help much discovering new ones since it can't see a lot of the sky at once and also is already looking in the same areas as the scopes at Kravass and Ockr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Central Observatory for the ATN/DSN has completed its commissioning campaign and is now staffing up for full operations year round. It contains the new 10m telescope that is now the biggest on Kerbin, along with radio dishes for satellite communication
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this month's known asteroid count numbered only 12, the second-lowest so far this year. Only 5 are so far known to be flying by this month so we could be moving back to a slow period. No complaints tho - with increasing surface activity we could do with less "cosmic rain"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SGQ-958(C) is confirmed to be entering our atmosphere in a few days over the western edge of the Great Desert. It will be ~200km from where the low-altitude KerBalloon crew will be operating so we don't expect they will be in danger, but they were warned before departure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
catching another one in the act and becoming the new penultimate asteroid of April, the ATN reports that WDV-642(B) skimmed by at just 0.09 Munar Distance late last week. It's now on its way out of the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-29-19 has been posted with a total of 3,490 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 21 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-22-19 has been posted with a total of 3,469 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 29 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered just today on its way out of the system, JUN-419(D) came no closer than 3.06 Munar Distance at perikee two days ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
traveling through our SOI since late yesterday, LHF-732(C) is set to pass by at no closer than 2.03 Munar Distance before being flung back out into kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
skimming past Minmus through the outer system, SXI-650(C) has just begun its journey through our SOI with a closest approach of 3.89 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-15-19 has been posted with a total of 3,440 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 29 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered today mere hours before making its SOI entry right now, HAR-187(C) will be skimming through the system with a near approach of no closer than 4.01 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed that Dres seems to be littered with moonlets - more importantly gravitational interaction with Jool has appeared to make all of them stable. They've put in for additional observation time to constrain some orbits twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest Asteroid Tracking Network bulletin states that nearly 4 hours ago WHD-736(D) came tumbling into our SOI, set to pass no closer than 0.75 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-8-19 has been posted with a total of 3,411 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 33 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
arriving into our SOI earlier today was UHZ-906(C), set to pass no closer than 0.29 Munar Distance on the way through the system over this next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OQN-857(C) joins two other known asteroids currently transiting through the system, coming no closer than 0.30 Munar Distance - the 2nd closest pass known so far this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
along this way comes this month's third known asteroid MXV-466(D), swinging around us at no closer than 0.49 Munar Distance over the next week before heading back out into the void
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
orbital data has been updated for bit.ly/_Alaba, its new orbit holds true to predictions made last year and it is on course for the next planned encounter in May. If it remains on course astronomers will do another long-term propagation to see where it will end up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZMA-630(A) has exited our SOI after its pass by Minmus. This was its second pass through our SOI after it was discovered back in 2017. Astronomers do not expect it back anytime in the next 30 years twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier, just a few minutes past the start of the day, Alaba made its 19th recorded transit through Mun's SOI, passing 1.8Mm at closest approach. We'll have updated orbital data posted once the KAS releases it, likely later today or early tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
15 known passes and one impact from the previous month almost ties with Feb and remains at an average level. We expect the similar numbers for this month as well, with 7 known passes so far (March started out with 8 known)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZMA-630(A) is beginning a unique pass thru our SOI this week - it will actually skim through Minmus' SOI as well, passing 1.4Mm from the small moon before continuing on. Tho no major change to its trajectory, still enough for astronomers to infer finer details of Minmus' gravity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-1-19 has been posted with a total of 3,378 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 28 asteroids that were discovered this past week, including the 1st long-period comet discovery in nearly 5 months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already we have a new visitor this month as YWA-047(E) tumbles into our SOI right around now. It is the first of 7 known asteroids (so far) to be passing by in April, with this one coming no closer than 0.69 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
set to enter our SOI near the end of today is the final asteroid we'll be tracking through our SOI this month, YYV-305(B). It will give us a wide berth, passing by at no closer than 3.04 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI late yesterday VGB-902(C), the penultimate known asteroid of March, is already working its way towards a 0.14 Munar Distance fly by before being flung back out into kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BTH-328(C) is just beginning its transit through our SOI, set to come as close as 0.24 Munar Distance along the way over the next week. The month is near an end, we have just 2 more known asteroids yet to visit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-25-19 has been posted with a total of 3,350 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 36 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also a fact that may not be obvious to some is that Alaba is indeed rotating, although the exact rate and movement about the various axis of motion is still not yet known and will require much more observation. Point is, this is why all 4 photos look different
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you're not sure what you're seeing, surface features that were pointing more or less at the observatory at the time bounced back radio waves with varied strength, leading to the brighter (more) and darker (less) areas. The graininess is a result of various interference
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Arekibo Radio Observatory has been working on imaging bit.ly/_Alaba, which is the closest moonlet that passes overhead the most often. These are the first radar imgs to be released (not taken) of the moonlet. They hope to further improve the technique as time progresses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already just over two hours into its transit of our SOI, KRX-868(C) is quite a few more away from its closest approach of 2.67 Munar Distance before it heads back out into kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ESA-390(C) has just now entered our SOI for a relatively close pass that will bring it down to just 0.14 Munar Distance from the north pole
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-18-19 has been posted with a total of 3,314 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 43 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WQO-227(D), entering earlier today, will pass us by at no closer than 1.61 Munar Distance. It joins 2 other known asteroids traversing the system. Once we work out hyperbolic orbital display for the Ops Tracker we will show transiting asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today started off with another asteroid visitor. WPY-383(C) will pass us by at 2.00 Munar Distance. It is the 10th known flyby of March so far with 4 more still to come, 3 of which were only discovered this month so we'll likely find a few more before April
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PAE-987(C) tumbled into our SOI early today and is set to pass by at no closer than 3.70 Munar Distance, sticking to the outskirts of our planetary system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
set to enter our SOI at the end of today, WLX-669(B) will then travel as close as 2.14 Munar Distance before heading back out into Kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-11-19 has been posted with a total of 3,271 asteroids, 6 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 35 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HVI-199(C) made an entrance into our SOI late yesterday and will travel no closer than 2.66 Munar Distance as it crosses through our little speck of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today brought TOR-158(C) into our SOI, where it will make a relatively close pass of 0.12 Munar Distance as it travels through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
16 known asteroids was the tally for last month, with one impact. This puts things back on average with this time last year and the uptick in discoveries/impacts during late 2018 seems to have subsided
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EVZ-335(E) is another big asteroid thankfully staying well away, just now entering our SOI and set to pass by at no closer than 2.39 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-4-19 has been posted with a total of 3,236 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 25 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now exiting our SOI, VVB-879(A) was discovered earlier today. Late last week it traveled as close as 3.03 Munar Distance at periapsis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LQA-319(E) has just begun to transit through the system, plotted to come no closer than 3.19 Munar Distance, staying well beyond Minmus' orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI ealier today, JND-395(D) will make a pass "overhead" of just 0.47 Munar Distance. The first asteroid of the month to just be passing by, we are currently expecting at least 8 more to do the same
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TWT-049(B) will be entering our SOI within the hour and astronomers have confirmed it will be splashing down in the northern seas, if it survives the trip through the atmosphere that is. Could potentially be seen by workers at the ATN North construction site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NAE-370(A) is the final known NKO to pass through our SOI, coming no closer than 0.26 Munar Distance as it does so over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
penultimate asteroid of February SBW-870(C) is now within our SOI and on its way towards closest approach of 0.45 Munar Distance during its brief visit to our neighborhood
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
APK-307(B) has just now entered our SOI, swinging through at no closer than 0.65 Munar Distance. This is the 14th of 16 known asteroids to be passing us by this month, which you may have forgotten ends today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QJX-795(D) crossed over into our SOI as yesterday crossed over into today. It will come no closer than 6.04 Munar Distance on its journey past our planet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-25-19 has been posted with a total of 3,211 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 23 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OAN-680(B) was discovered already working its way through our SOI, set to pass by at 0.15 Munar Distance later today before heading back out towards kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers from the ATN have confirmed their impact prediction for QPR-884(E), which entered the system at the start of today. A scientific expedition visited this island just last month. Now they can make another trip to observe the changes wrought by the impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ultimately we still want to have a web application that will let you see the orbits of all the asteroids in 3D, similar to what you can do now in the Ops Tracker for vessels and moonlets but that will have to wait until the Ops Tracker is fully feature complete - later this year?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-18-19 has been posted with a total of 3,189 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 29 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JRR-107(B) has just "dropped" into Kerbin's gravitational clutches and will cruise through the system over the next few days, coming no closer than 2.37 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is the first long-term prediction made since astronomers tried to propagate Alaba's orbit out several years - it was shown to be wrong just a few months later. We will see how accurate this prediction for Vieras turns out twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the moonlet will spend the next 2 years working its way inward and reach a fairly circular orbit that lets it encounter Mun at both nodes, which puts it on the wrong side and begins to increase its eccentricity again, quickly punting it out over just 3 encounters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have completed their prediction analysis for bit.ly/Vieras - it will likely be sticking around until early 2020 before it is tossed back out of the system by Mun. Here is a plot showing all 19 future encounter orbits in 3 major phases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost... there... landing station for the sea cable was just completed near Umbarg and the overland cable was complete at the end of last year. Marine cable is making its way to shore and should be hooked up by the end of March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday CFQ-454(D) exited the system and its new kerbolar orbit has been predicted to send it back our way and through Mun's SOI in 2035, making this the furthest prediction of a Mun encounter to date. Furthest prediction for Minmus pass is due in 2030, made back in 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XQA-077(A) entered the system almost an hour ago. Plotted to skim through at just 4.90 Munar Distance, things move slowly enough out near the edge of the system it will still take 3 days to make the 131,258km traverse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updated data for bit.ly/Vieras has been posted. Astronomers know it will be passing Mun again on 5/24 which will further drop its apokee. They are still working on a long-term prediction to see where the moonlet will eventually end up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a more recent photo taken of an asteroid 0.46 Munar Distance away brought additional surprise when the glow was clearly visible from the sunlit side of the asteroid as well. So far less than 1% of known asteroids passing by have had glowing surfaces twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is still the best photo we have from a similarly-colored rock. The search turned up no fragments with unusual properties. No idea still why some areas are brighter than others, if they are connected or just scattered across the surface twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
skimming through the system since late yesterday, ITW-797(C) will be coming no closer than 4.71 Munar Distance, which is a shame because astronomers would love a closer look at what is making it glow with a hint of green
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/Vieras, discovered Sept 2018 & likely captured shortly beforehand, is now at closest approach to Mun on the 1st recorded pass through its SOI. This encounter will reduce its eccentricity & drag its apokee down from 83,041km at the edge of Kerbin's SOI to 52,915km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
amazing work from the construction company managing ATN/DSN North has brought the project back to within two months on schedule after their supply docks were wiped out. ATN/DSN South remains on track - both slated to begin ops in 2020 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-11-19 has been posted with a total of 3,160 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a late entry yesterday, the massive ZIZ-044(E) will pass by at no closer than 1.55 Munar Distance before exiting the system. Go away and stay away!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WYR-567(B) has just entered the system, set for a distant pass of 3.02 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
late bulletin from an entry earlier today, CFQ-454(D) is transiting the system along with 4 other known asteroids and will be passing us by at no closer than 0.35 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next launch attempt is ready for operations to begin tomorrow @ 13:08 UTC - 🚀 GO PROGENY! 🚀 catch up on everything else that happened this past week and also learn more about the strange weather from yesterday: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8592
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OAC-237(C) has just tumbled into the system and will come no closer than 0.27 Munar Distance as it flies on by and out into sun orbit in 4 days time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HTP-234(B) has been traversing the system since early today, set to come no closer than 0.82 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PEH-676(C) will come skimming past at just 0.04 Munar Distance, the closest miss we have discovered for this month so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
COF-264(D) entered our system late yesterday, the first known asteroid to do so this month. It will pass by at no closer than 0.25 Munar Distance and we are so far expecting 11 more, including one later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dres isn't a very exciting planet, but ATN astronomers are trying to get scope time to observe it more closely after failing to find as many Main Belt asteroids as they would expect to be intercepting its orbit - it seems to have largely been cleared. How many has it kept?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ARO also announced they will be investigating the possibility of signals being detected transmitting from the Joolean system. Many were hoping for confirmation of signal detection of course, but the observatory is playing it cautious. We approve
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the huge 200m dish at the Arekibo Radio Observatory officially begins science operations today - congrats to all the project members! Remote observation is also possible, scientists from all over Kerbin have proposed time on the radio telescope, also capable of active RADAR
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-4-19 has been posted with a total of 3,115 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has finally cleared up an issue with redundant entries in their observation database, which was taking up valuable scope time as astronomers confirmed the orbital data of asteroids which had previously been confirmed by others
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
A relatively quite period this past month, with just 2 known impacts. We don't spot 100% of the asteroids passing by - we are still blind over our polar regions - so it may just *look* like there are less this month than normal...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TKQ-477(C) is the final known asteroid to swing by this month. It started its journey through our SOI early today and will pass no closer than 0.29 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered today already transiting the system, FNC-934(C) will swing by as close as 0.40 Munar Distance through the remainder of this month and then back off into interplanetary space next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the closest known pass of the month, OFE-716(C) has now begun to fall into our gravity well and will zip on by at just 0.06 Munar Distance. Because its kerbol-centric orbit is similar to ours, it will only reach speeds similar to our rockets, just over 2km/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UNK-542(C) has begun to traverse the outskirts of our system, passing by way out at 5.68 Munar Distance then tumbling off into the darkness...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-28-19 has been posted with a total of 3,080 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ORI-915(C) has just entered our SOI and is only the 5th asteroid to swing by this month, coming no closer than 0.19 Munar Distance. In this final week of January we are currently expecting at least 3 more, but the month will still fall well short of average for the past year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although there is currently nearly an even split between Main Belt and NKOs, astronomers expect the Main Belt numbers to begin to pull away faster & faster from NKO discoveries as the years go on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN have finally released their yearly asteroid census. Good to see the Main Asteroids clawing back towards majority - numbers below represent last year while a color next to a number is what the majority category was in 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Arekibo Radio Observatory is wrapping up its commissioning phase and getting ready to start science operations on Feb 4th! The ARO leadership have already scheduled a press conference for that day saying they have an announcement to make
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZFP-342(D) has been confirmed on course to enter the atmosphere in a few days, likely to cause some localized damage to the region regardless of whether it explodes in the air or hits the ground. Thankfully no surface operations are in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a second interloper today makes its entry. CML-771(C) is coming in for a closer visit, passing by at just 0.62 Munar Distance on its way through our little space of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WIO-658(C) has just made its entry into our SOI, keeping to the outskirts of the system and not sticking around long, coming no closer than 4.37 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-21-19 has been posted with a total of 3,068 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DIL-541(B) is our second known asteroid pass of the month, zipping past at only 0.52 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba that confirms its next predicted encounter on April 4th. Astronomers are eager to try and see its ultimate fate but want to wait to ensure all their latest predictions play out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-14-19 has been posted with a total of 3,031 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no we haven't been ignoring ATN bulletins, FMW-931(C) is indeed the first known flyby of the new year. So far only 5 more have been spotted for January, apparently continuing the downward trend in asteroid numbers. It will pass no closer than 2.22 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has begun its next transit through Mun's SOI, however no scopes are on the side of the planet currently facing it. It will be sunward as it exits so tomorrow will be the first chance astronomers have to make observations for an update late Mon or early Tues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN posted new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba and we have updated our Ops Tracker. It is indeed on track for its next predicted encounter on the 13th, this coming Sunday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a look at Mun a few minutes ago when Alaba was passing closest to it on its 17th known encounter. Astronomers are monitoring it and will be able to release an update tomorrow to confirm whether it is still on track for its next predicted encounter on the 13th
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking over the photos, Lead Scientist Cheranne and her team were stunned to see the extent of the damage, seen here from 3.7km ASL. Brighter areas used to have lots of trees that are now just ash
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
collection is complete, with one more pass for photos. Passing over Umbarg now, Tedman is slowly descending and will follow the coast and turn inland over the Cape to avoid the terrain that lies in the way of a direct approach into Rwy01
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman is approaching the southern end of the burn scar, preparing to descend down to 500m ASL and begin his collection runs. He will pass over the area 3 times from different directions and increasing altitude by 1km each pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd sunrise is near and weather is looking good (Moho, Eve/Gilly & Jool above), although winds remain a bit on the strong side. Ted is suiting up, Civvie will depart in ~1 hour around mid-cycle so we can also get a good look at the burn scar from the air
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-7-19 has been posted with a total of 3,016 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also promising is last year we had only known of 41% of the impacts beforehand, this year it was 56%. with ATN Central coming online this year our ability to find asteroids will improve slightly, tho ATN North/South in 2020 will be key for polar sky coverage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
overall impact rate (on or near land, anyways) has decreased since the last report by 66%, which helps to assure us we aren't finding less asteroids because we're missing a lot, there really are less out there near us now - maybe passing through a thinner region of the NKO belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has once again worked with keologists to produce a map of all seismic events thought to be associated with asteroid impacts or air bursts - so size of event does not directly relate to asteroid size. Known events match up with predicted impacts of discovered asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had 16 asteroids enter our SOI last month, one did not make it back out. So far only 5 have been discovered for January. The downward trend in known asteroid fly-bys appears to be continuing. We hear the ATN plans to release more data over the weekend regarding this
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/GenesisProgram has a new contract for the Civvie to collect more air samples over the burn scar left by the airburst from the near-miss meteor strike back in Nov. A flight was done shortly after the fire, but we were unable to accept that contract due to the KSC shutdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-31-18 has been posted with a total of 2,981 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
confirmed to be coming down over the northern Tundra region, XYC-325(A) poses no threat to any ongoing surface operations, the closest of which would the DSN North observatory over 350km to the west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already several hours into its transit of our SOI, NVR-440(B) will eventually pass by at no closer than 2.10 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IDL-315(C) has now made its entry into our SOI, passing inside of Mun's orbit at 0.82 Munar Distance as it drops "down" through the system over the next few days. Although standing on the equator it would appear to be moving sideways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing by at 0.39 Munar Distance in two days, KLI-492(C) has just begun to "fall" into our gravity well to be slung past the planet and back out into interplanetary space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-24-18 has been posted with a total of 2,963 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
asteroid LZT-202(C) has begun its arc through the Kerbin system, passing by us at no closer than 2.61 Munar Distance. It is the 12th asteroid so far this month with just 4 so far known remaining to enter our SOI in the next 10 days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2018 operations have officially ceased! We will resume operations on Jan 2nd, 2019. We are very pleased we were able to squeeze in so much this final week, here is one last Ops Summary to close out the year: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8189
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered back on 9/1, DQU-599(C) finally made its entrance into our SOI earlier today and will pass by at no closer than 0.46 Munar Distance as it tumbles through over the remainder of this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PUG-915(C) was the original closest asteroid we referenced in an earlier tweet before ICE-619(D) was discovered. Skimming by at just 0.07 Munar Distance, we're proud to say we've launched a rocket higher than this too bit.ly/KSARecords
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI, TKM-326(C) will swing through over the rest of this week and come as close as 2.38 Munar Distance as it does.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VHG-266(E) has just begun its transit through our system and will be tumbling by at 0.60 Munar Distance at closest approach later this week. It will also be another radar return target for Arekibo, which is wrapping up its commissioning phase this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-17-18 has been posted with a total of 2,929 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MGN-032(C) is today's second and final known interloper, now starting its 4-day trek across the Kerbin system while passing no closer than 3.39 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QZW-254(A) has just begun to transit our SOI, coming no closer than 1.50 Munar Distance. Halfway through the month now we have 9 more known SOI incursions, not counting one more later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DQY-617(C) has just entered our SOI, set to pass no closer than 0.18 Munar Distance. It will actually pass nearly directly over Arekibo while close to perikee and will serve as a target for some tests of the observatory's radar systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI earlier today, ICE-619(D) is on track to be our closest miss this month, at just 0.04 Munar Distance. We've launched rockets higher than this!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-10-18 has been posted with a total of 2,883 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since just a few minutes into today XYT-719(C) has been tumbling down our gravity well towards a closest approach of just 0.11 Munar Distance, which is actually only the second-closest known approach for this month so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IQN-452(C) has been making its second recorded pass through our SOI since early today, coming no closer than 5.58 Munar Distance, way further out than its 0.16 MD pass in March earlier this year. Astronomers do not expect it to return anytime in the next few decades
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HGK-850(C), the first asteroid of December, has begun its traversal of our SOI and will come no closer than 4.08 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
November was more of an average month for this year, with 19 asteroids entering our SOI. We're looking at similar levels for December as well it seems, with 11 known to be entering throughout this month so far, no doubt with more to be discovered as the year draws to a close
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-3-18 has been posted with a total of 2,862 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ORJ-043(C) has officially been named bit.ly/_Tantalus, with thanks to @AFancyPenguin for the suggestion! Truly apt, for if predictions hold true it will have come and gone well before we could ever hope to reach it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's second arrival is LPJ-431(C), now falling into our gravitational clutches for a swing past at just 0.94 Munar Distance before being flung back out into Kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI is BVU-213(C), set to pass no closer than 4.99 Munar Distance as it slowly tumbles on by overhead into next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QKJ-688(C) happened to be discovered as it was entering the system earlier today, set to pass by at 1.81 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LSD-594(C) has just entered our sphere of gravitational influence and will swing by at no closer than 0.45 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YQB-102(D) entered back on 11/24 and passed by at 2.23 Munar Distance on 11/25. Astronomers say it will be back in 2032 for another pass at 2.67 MD - once again entering our SOI on 11/24 for the close approach on 11/25. Cosmic serendipity!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-26-18 has been posted with a total of 2,823 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
on the heels of VNW-910(B) less than an hour later and in stark contrast, SBV-903(C) wandered into our SOI for a short skim through the outer system. it will be gone by tomorrow after passing no closer than 5.53 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today along came VNW-910(B), on a long lazy arc that will keep it around until next month, passing no closer than 2.52 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UEL-807(B) is one of this month's closer passes, entering our SOI now it will fly by at just 0.27 Munar Distance in two days time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YQB-102(D) is now within our SOI and will come to a near point of 2.23 Munar Distance during its traversal of the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EQX-750(C) now joins two other known asteroids to be passing through, skimming the outer system coming no closer than 2.84 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed DAJ-808(C)'s impact location, after it just entered our SOI about an hour ago. Will present no hazards to any ongoing surface operations should it survive entry into the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI, AZF-357(E) is a relatively big rock making a relatively small miss as it zips by us at only 0.64 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-19-18 has been posted with a total of 2,805 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data is up for bit.ly/_Alaba after extra care was taken in observing its new orbit for this next set of predictions, which extend to May 2019. We'll see if these hold true better than the last attempt. Large radial shifts will occur at the next 5 passes at the ascending node, while inclination will change only 1.2°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has already made its most recent pass through Mun's SOI at the start of today. Still sunward, by the weekend astronomers will have been able to observe it over the night side and post updated orbital data as well as their new 5-encounter prediction
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VSF-237(C) is now within Kerbin's sphere of gravitational influence, coming as close as 0.999998333 Munar Distance - and we didn't round that down because yea, it's close! Its trajectory however does not line it up with Mun for an impact, it will sail by overhead
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
don't forget that bit.ly/ORJ-043_C is still looking for a name! One will be chosen (not necessarily just from public suggestions) by the Kerbal Astronomical Society on the 29th of this month. Remember, names cannot begin with A,C,M,P,R or V
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we and the rest of the scientific community are not pleased to see religious leaders failing to condemn the actions of the kerbs that waited on the surface for "deliverance". They are saying their "souls are traveling the stars". We respect their choice but don't believe in it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-12-18 has been posted with a total of 2,756 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we consider this to be a very sad result of all the absurd theories that sprung up after the passage of bit.ly/Pilirani, where many Monolithic followers believed it was really an alien space ship that had come through to take away the True Believers 🙁
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a grisly discovery was made today by meteorite hunters of 7 bodies a few km from the epicenter beneath the airburst. They appear to have died from the compression wave traveling along the ground. Monolithic totems carried on their persons reveal them to be religious followers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZLL-713(E) entered our SOI earlier today, will pass by at no closer than 1.39 Munar Distance on its travels through our current region of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fires are dying down out in the grasslands researchers feel it's safe enough to explore. Of course, intrepid private hunters may have already begun to scour the land despite the dangerous conditions. No doubt scientists will have to buy some back but with risk can come reward...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ in Umbarg is back up to full staff and operations. Specialist Bill is here helping his home cavern clean up some small rockfalls. No injuries reported during the event, tho a few minor ones have come out of cleanup ops. This near-miss wasn't a wake-up but still scary!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the grasslands are burning on the outskirts of the airburst area, several minor impact craters have been found. Researchers'll have to wait for the conflagration to die down bfore they can pick thru the area for meteorite samples, which could take a day or 2 depending on weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reports from Umbarg are good. Very minor rock falls, keothermal power remains online and cavern officials have already said they hope to clear kerbs to return within the next 4-6 hours. Airships will soon be enroute to check out the airburst location
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
remote observation of the event was knocked offline from the compression wave of the airburst that occurred at ~4.5km ASL when YGD-619(C) slammed into the denser lower atmosphere. It had already partially broken up before hand but still was a frighteningly forceful explosion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ has been evacuated fully, as we are near the middle of the main cavern, whose ceiling is about 200m above us. Hopefully rockfall damage is minimal. We'll be standing by in Kravass to the north for word on the aftermath of the event
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 hrs until atmospheric entry of YGD-619(C) & final prep is underway in Umbarg. All who could have evacuated to the other 3 cavern systems, all who remain have been moved to the inner walls away from the large open spaces in the central areas. Emergency services standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today ZTY-614(C) came wandering into our SOI, you know - as asteroids tend to do. It will pass no closer than 0.55 Munar Distance before tumbling back off into the void...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at 2.6 kilotons it's actually quite light for a Class-C, meaning there's a good chance it's a loose rubble pile that will break up on entry. Still, everyone is preparing for the worst. This is the closest entry point to date near a populated area since twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed the inbound trajectory of YGD-619(C), which entered our SOI early today. It was discovered back on 10/23 so preparations have been underway in Umbarg since then to ensure a ground impact will not cause serious damage within the underground caverns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI, NCF-450(C) will be swinging by at no closer than 3.31 Munar Distance over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WRG-497(E) entered our SOI at the start of today, set to pass no closer than 0.98 Munar Distance. It's one of three large Class-E asteroids to pass by this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new moonlet is on a even longer orbit than Vieras, taking over 13 days to make one revolution. It will not encounter Mun's SOI again until Sept 30th of next year, but it looks like that encounter will toss it back out into kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have another moonlet added to the Ops Tracker! bit.ly/ORJ-043_C was revealed today by astronomers, found in orbit after a recent pass through Mun's SOI. KAS is once again accepting name proposals. Names must not begin with A,C,M,P,R or V
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-5-18 has been posted with a total of 2,734 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
only 10 asteroids were known to have entered our SOI during October, which is well below average for this year but similar in number to last year. November has 13 known incoming asteroids already, three of which will be entering the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI a few hours ago, astronomers have confirmed the entry location for ONS-625(B), which will keep it away from any surface activities. Relatively shallow water between the islands could be a lucrative spot to salvage any meteorites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TXR-814(C) has just made its entrance as our first asteroid of November, sticking to the recent trend of skimming through our SOI's outer reaches and will come no closer than 4.63 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering into our SOI, QCK-846(E) is the last known pass of October, thankfully lumbering no closer than 6.60 Munar Distance as it skims through the outer reaches of the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YVQ-829(A) has just entered our SOI for a pass by at no closer than 1.46 Munar Distance through into next month. It is the penultimate asteroid entry for this month, that we know of so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-29-18 has been posted with a total of 2,709 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from maritime services that the OLZ-440(C) event did create a large wave (whether by impact or air burst could not be observed) that washed away the docks used to offload cargo for transport to the ATN North construction site causing weeks of delay at least to the project
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed that OLZ-440(C), which entered our SOI earlier today, is on course as predicted to impact the water if it survives atmospheric entry. All maritime operations in support of ATN North construction have ceased until after the event
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everything continues as predicted for bit.ly/_Alaba, which has new orbital data posted and is on track for its last predicted encounter next month. Afterwards astronomers will publish a 5-encounter prediction to see if their accuracy holds over longer time scales
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba is at perimun for this SOI pass, roughly 1,700km above the surface. This is occurring at a time when Alaba's ascending node is facing towards the sun, so astronomers will have to wait until later this week for it to come around to the night side to check its trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-22-18 has been posted with a total of 2,675 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-15-18 has been posted with a total of 2,648 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HIL-468(C) has just begun its leisurely trip through our SOI this month, coming no closer than 3.60 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XSX-507(E) is just now entering our SOI, the first of two large class-E asteroids so far discovered to pass by us this month. It will thankfully still stay well away at 2.00 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YVZ-671(B) is a rare low relative inclination asteroid whizzing past at just 0.21 Munar Distance this weekend, having just entered our SOI a few minutes earlier on schedule after its discovery back in late September
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we sent through some other submissions as well that were received from followers. We do know now though that one of the KAS's guidelines was to have the name start with a letter not yet used for a previous moonlet. All 5 previous ones have started with unique letters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerbal Astronomical Society has chosen to rename NXP-702(D) formally as bit.ly/Vieras, which implies its status as a guest of our system. Thanks to @Rod31097420 for the suggestion! This is our 6th official moonlet discovered so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
head over to ops.kerbalspace.agency and use the new Back/Forward mission history buttons to really get a good look at how Alaba's orbit has changed over time. Click as fast as you want! Just one of many new features being implemented for Ops Tracker v9!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PQH-598(C) entered our SOI earlier today, set to pass relatively close at just 0.15 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-8-18 has been posted with a total of 2,619 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ back online, upgrades went well according to our IT kerbs. Surface team assigned to monitoring the Monolith will be making new measurements tomorrow on the bore hole to confirm the rate of closure is holding steady since last week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ will be offline tomorrow through the weekend for networking infrastructure upgrades, but we've given the ATN kerbs account access so any incoming asteroids will still be reported
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as yesterday drew to a close WFD-339(C) fell into our SOI and will sweep past us at no closer than 0.33 Munar Distance over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with only 15 known asteroids passing through our SOI last month we continue to see a reduced trend that looks to continue into this month as well. Astronomers are considering whether we might be passing through a relatively empty area in the belt of NKOs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ILV-613(A) has just now entered our SOI and will pass by no closer than 2.41 Munar Distance. We are expecting at least 5 more asteroids to fly by this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-1-18 has been posted with a total of 2,601 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QLL-783(C) made its entry just as today began and at only 0.07 Munar Distance will be the closest pass for this month, so far as we know currently
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several hours into its transit of our SOI, HIN-132(A) will pass by no closer than 1.27 Munar Distance and is currently the last know asteroid for September
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
arriving early today, XAD-956(C) won't be coming close enough to resolve any reddish color that should be emanating from it, but astronomers will study what they can from afar as it tumbles past at 1.64 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction has begun on the sites for both Northern and Southern Deep Space Network observatories. They are scheduled to be completed and commissioned in 2020 and will help keep us in touch with future polar satellites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our KerBalloon crew will be attaching to yet another expedition as scientists head for the south polar caps to search for meteorites and further investigate the increased radiation levels found at those latitudes twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-24-18 has been posted with a total of 2,575 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZRS-102(C) is now entering our SOI to join 3 others currently known to be transiting the system. Busy times! It will come no closer than 1.89 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
along comes IJI-450(C), which is our closest known pass of the month skimming by at just 0.08 Munar Distance before being flung back out into kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Arekibo finally begins it commissioning phase! All the hardware has been installed within the structure completed earlier this year and the telescope can begin observing known radio sources to calibrate & compare data with past observations over the remainder of the year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OBP-030(B) has just begun its 6-day journey through our SOI, coming no closer than 0.66 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HCJ-693(E) has just entered our SOI and will come no closer than 3.23 Munar Distance as it traverses our sphere of influence over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-17-18 has been posted with a total of 2,539 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TUL-358(C) will swing around at 0.61 Munar Distance over the coming week. We are halfway through the month and this is just the 9th known asteroid with 6 more to come. There's still half a month left of possible discoveries to make too however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's early interloper was VCI-961(C), zipping across the outer Kerbin system coming no closer than 5.27 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports KZQ-830(C), which just left after it made its second (closer) pass through our SOI in less than a year, won't be coming back anytime within the next 14 years. They'll follow up with it in a few years to see where it's at, as they do with all NKOs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AEB-983(D) made entry very early today into our SOI and will be the second-closest known pass this month coming to within 0.12 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we do know that NXP-702(D) will be sticking around at least after its next encounter with Mun, so the Kerbal Astronomical Society will allow it to be named. If anyone has an idea for one, let us know! Name selection will be announced at the start of next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a new moonlet! Astronomers discovered bit.ly/NXP-702_D already in orbit. It's likely not been there long due to its large eccentricity. We'll see how well they predicted its first known Mun encounter early next year before seeing where it might end up long-term
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed UIX-921(C) will be coming down over the water south of KSC. Should present little to no danger - it will occur at low tide which places us nearly 70m above sea level. Still, those still on the surface have been warned (pilgrims too)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XJO-256(C) is already several hours into its transit of our SOI, making the 3rd-closest known approach to us this month tomorrow at 0.30 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-10-18 has been posted with a total of 2,500 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering late yesterday, JGD-807(D) is only the fourth known asteroid to pass through our SOI so far this month. It will come no closer than 5.08 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KZQ-830(C) has just entered our SOI and will tumble by at no closer than 2.90 Munar Distance. This is the second time it's traveled through Kerbin's gravitational influence. Its 1st pass back at the end of 2017 was 3.83 MD. ATN will keep an eye on whether it keeps getting closer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
why have we not found more small moons of Jool & the other gas giants? No telescope is looking at them enough. All are too busy scanning the sky for asteroids that could endanger us. As more scopes come online in the coming years, more time can be spent looking at planets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
18 asteroids remained the final count for August, with two impacts. In addition to a below-avg count it had an above-avg perikee distance. Are asteroids getting fewer and father? Only more data will let us know for sure. Time will tell!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/_Alaba continues to remain on track with predictions, setup for its next encounter with Mun on 10/23. It's a longer gap between encounters, so we'll see how accurate things still are by next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ockr Observatory is able to watch Alaba leave Mun's influence after its 14th encounter and it will remain visible over the next two days as it rises through apoapsis and back down. New orbital data should be posted tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-3-18 has been posted with a total of 2,472 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AHY-138(E) entered our SOI earlier today, another big 'roid thankfully staying well away and outside Mun's orbit with a closest approach of 1.32 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first known asteroid of Sept made its appearance late yesterday; JOZ-324(E) is one of 11 expected this month so far, so we could end up seeing numbers similar to August. It will pass by no closer than 6.70 Munar Distance - in and out!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have released another 3-encounter prediction for Alaba. The dates given for the last attempt were all accurate so we'll see if they can nail all three again this time. If so they'll attempt a 5-encounter prediction next time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QYY-822(D) is our last known asteroid SOI entry this month, capping off a below-avg August with just 18 entries. Yearly average so far has been 26. Of course its not enough data still to say whether we're about to see a downwards trend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed DEN-455(C) will enter our atmosphere over the ocean, posing no risk to any current surface operations, the closest of which would be Arekibo several hundred km to the north
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QKG-310(C) has just entered our SOI, set to sling around Kerbin at 0.32 Munar Distance. No other known asteroid will be coming any closer this month as August draws to a close
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction work will now spread out between the DSN North and South sites, which have been staging equipment over this past year in preparation for building to begin next month. For more info on our developing Deep Space Network: kerbalspace.agency/?p=3736
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great news from across the Kerblantic - bit.ly/DSN_Central has completed construction! It still has a few months of equipment setup & comms cabling to undergo but by early next year we can begin using the 27m dishes for extended downrange tracking of Ascension
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba is posted. It's back near the orbit it was after encounter #11 and next encounter (#14 on 9/3) will see it radially shifted and more likely to pass through Mun's SOI on its upward trek to ascending node in future encounters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
asteroid HLD-245(C) is already several hours into its journey through our SOI, making a close approach of no less than 6.13 Munar Distance. Although these big rocks tend to miss us, we run into at least a couple hundred really teeny tiny ones every day - those are meteors
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here today, gone tomorrow - JNS-856(A) will make only a brief visit within our SOI and come no closer than 6.90 Munar Distance. Kerbin's gravitational influence extends out to 7.01 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-27-18 has been posted with a total of 2,409 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the day was only minutes old when KER-248(E) came tumbling in, set to pass no closer than 3.67 Munar Distance. Speaking of tumbling, getting a better idea of how asteroids rotate will be something Arekibo's radar will allow astronomers to investigate next year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PTR-403(D) is making its way through our SOI, coming no closer than 1.88 Munar Distance. It joins only 2 other known asteroids currently transiting our little corner of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba will be making its 13th recorded pass through Mun's SOI today. Intercepting at its descending node, it will be sunward as it leaves Mun's influence and astronomers won't get a good look at it until late tomorrow. We expect an update late Mon or early Tues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CUH-387(D) is just now entering our SOI to sling around just outside Mun's orbit at 1.10 Munar Distance over the next few days before exiting at the start of next month. Wow, September is almost here already!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today saw the entry of QDL-889(B), which will sweep through the system while coming no closer than 1.45 Munar Distance. It is only the 10th known asteroid to enter our SOI this month. We almost said "pass through" but one of those didn't 😛
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LBF-365(B) has begun to fall through our SOI, coming no closer than 0.94 Munar Distance as it passes under our south pole. That's all relative to this image, of course. To us at KSC it would appear to track more horizontally across the sky if it were naked eye visible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN's rate of spotting asteroids hasn't fallen but the number of unique objects spotted has. Sometimes up to half of objects noted in observations are already known. Astronomers are now thinking our system hosts just a few tens of thousands instead of hundreds of thousands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WJR-297(B) entered our SOI early today and is currently the closest known pass of the month, skimming just 130km above the top of our atmosphere at 0.02 Munar Distance. It will whiz past at 2.69km/s relative to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-20-18 has been posted with a total of 2,375 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
orbital update for bit.ly/_Alaba has been posted. It will make another encounter on 8/25, against prev predictions of a months-long stable period. Going forward one encounter we are very precise - beyond that, work still needs to be done w/ trajectory plotting accuracy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has now entered Mun's SOI for its 12th recorded flyby, doing so this time while passing its ascending node. We can't see it at the moment but will be able to observe it shortly after it exits over the night side of Kerbin. Orbital update should be posted tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI, PRI-070(C) is actually not the nearest miss known so far this month but it does come pretty darn close at only 0.04 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early on the 15th, QLL-783(C) entered our SOI for a relatively close pass of 0.11 Munar Distance. We already know it will be back later this year at the start of October for an even closer pass, shown in green
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a recent discovery from the ATN has blown away the previous record holder for distant Kupier Belt Object. VDE-587(B) is approaching the outer Kerbolar system, falling from a distance of 46Tm - that's 46 *trillion* meters!! It takes an incredible 20,688 years to complete one orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MCQ-149(C) was just discovered a short while ago, passing over the north pole at closest approach of 0.91 Munar Distance before "falling" out of our SOI back into sun-centric orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-13-18 has been posted with a total of 2,342 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today KCN-927(E) entered our SOI for a skim through the outer system, coming no closer than 6.64 Munar Distance. No additional SOI entries were reported during the blackout period & Ockr observatory continues to remain watchful when Kravass is down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have released the report on the events that occurred this past Tuesday, which will serve as our Ops Summary for this week. Additional updates will be posted as we get more information on the EM field surrounding KSC. kerbalspace.agency/?p=7917
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports no SOI entries occurred during the blackout, observatory in Ockr has kept vigilance while Kravass was offline. SEO-510(E) has just now fallen into Kerbin's gravitational influence and will pass by no closer than 0.61 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FIJ-987(D) is the first to fly by this month, coming no closer than 3.77 Munar Distance. We currently have discovered 11 asteroids that will be making passes through our SOI this month, with two of those entering the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-6-18 has been posted with a total of 2,310 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ROC-509(C) has entered our SOI and astronomers confirm it will be coming down over the southern hemisphere. It's not a glowing rock, but the possible impact location will still be recorded for any future expeditions to the area to check out as meteorites are always valuable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another crowded month in our SOI as 29 asteroids came ripping through, with 2 impacts. We mentioned how most stayed away and this month did have the 2nd-highest average perikee (29Mm). The greatest was Nov 2017 with an avg perikee of 38Mm. Overall avg Pe 23Mm since 11/16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
orbital update for bit.ly/_Alaba has been posted, astronomers found it almost right where they were expecting it to be. You can view the details in the Ops Tracker for more information by clicking on the title bar beneath the image (or lack of one in this case)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-30-18 has been posted with a total of 2,290 asteroids, 8 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LHN-433(B), the last known asteroid to enter our SOI this month, will also be making a pass by Mun (which will be its closest approach to Kerbin) before getting thrown back out into sun-centric orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerman Observatory atop Kravass is able to look westward as Mun sets to see Alaba begin its SOI transit, but will not be able to follow it all the way through. It won't be visible again until tomorrow so we don't expect an update on its new orbit until Tues at least
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LNI-213(C) will pass by no closer than 1.27 Munar Distance. As July draws to a close, it is the second to last known asteroid to be crossing through our SOI this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GGE-307(C) has been discovered recently to hold a new record for long-period comets, orbiting 2.7x farther out at apkelion than the last record holder. It doesn't match the period length of our longest-known KBO orbit but coming closer the sun at perikelion moves it 5x faster
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-23-18 has been posted with a total of 2,266 asteroids, 6 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QEY-825(C) entered late yesterday and will get slung up and out, passing no closer than 1.12 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JMP-580(D) is the one rock astronomers wish were coming closer, as it seems to be glowing a lovely shade of purple. They'll do the best they can to observe it as it tumbles past at 5.34 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this asteroid will rip past us at only 2.08 Munar Distance in 2119 at an incredible 12km/s!! One of the reasons our regular impacts are so relatively benign is they come in at ~2km/s since they share similar orbits w/ us. A rock like this though could cause tremendous damage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost mis-classified as a comet due to its highly eccentric orbit, BLH-133(E) was discovered last wknd & has been under close study ever since, as it crosses Kerbin's orbit, has the 2nd-lowest recorded perikelion ever discovered & also is the most massive known asteroid @ 8.3t
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SCK-745(D) entered late yesterday and is our closest known miss of the month so far at just 0.08 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZUH-018(C) made a late entry yesterday, which meant all 3 asteroids arrived in alphabetical order. Other than that, nothing special to note and it will pass no closer than 1.57 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QAZ-575(D) continues the far and away trend with a pass by no closer than 4.54 Munar Distance before exiting later this week - and good riddance!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PQV-783(C) will now join several other asteroids transiting the outer system coming no closer than 3.27 Munar Distance - the majority of space rocks this month have passed by well outside Mun's orbit, not that we are complaining!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IFF-517(E) is the largest and only E class asteroid known to be passing through our neighborhood this month, coming no closer than 1.38 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering earlier today, FAZ-002(A) will swing through the system these next few days, coming no closer than 1.25 Munar Distance. It joins 5 other known asteroids to be currently transiting our SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RIO-535(C) has just made entry into our sphere of influence and will make a pass through the outskirts, coming no closer than 4.35 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YBU-544(C) entered our SOI earlier today and astronomers have confirmed its entry point. It will not pose a threat to any ongoing surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IFR-212(B) is on a grand arc through the outer system, coming no closer than 3.70 Munar Distance. Today is July 16th and this is the 16th known asteroid to enter our SOI so far this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-16-18 has been posted with a total of 2,254 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a polar expedition to recover meteorite samples just became more lucrative because another colored asteroid, FXB-404(B), is falling within 100km of where bit.ly/XTE-221_B may have landed! It will likely need to be located on the sea floor however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GTX-942(D) will enter our SOI at the end of today, cruising through and passing no closer than 4.32 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after taking observations yesterday astronomers have confirmed that bit.ly/_Alaba is in its expected orbit and will be making its next Mun encounter on 7/29 as predicted early last month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hot on the heels of our last SOI entry comes the arrival of PVM-972(A), making a relatively close pass of 0.42 Munar Distance on a slow trek through the system thanks to its low relative velocity and non-hyperbolic orbit (it simply travels too far away to remain captured)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MAV-322(C) will swing through the outer system, passing no closer than 2.85 Munar Distance along the way 🎶🎵 Tumble, tumble, tumble... let that asteroid tumble... on byyyyy 🎵🎶
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a 5-day furlough YHY-565(C), discovered earlier today and passing by closest at 2.91 Munar Distance, becomes the next known asteroid to enter our SOI. Last time we had this many days between SOI entries was 6/4-6/9
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after an exhaustive study of the bit.ly/LDL-466_C meteorite samples recovered scientists have found no conclusive evidence for exotic compounds. An expedition to the impact location of XTE-221(B) is being considered twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mun is setting to the west, and even Kravass won't be able to still see it when Alaba passes through its SOI in just under 30 minutes. Thanks to its increasing inclination & orbital period, we won't get a good look at its new orbit until this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TRQ-412(B) will skim through the outskirts of our SOI over the next few days, coming no closer than 5.26 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-9-18 has been posted with a total of 2,217 asteroids, 8 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XKD-498(C) now joins the other 5 known asteroids to currently be transiting through our SOI. It will have the closest pass so far this month at just 0.25 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RCN-842(B) is the second of three asteroids to come tumbling into our SOI today, taking the low road through the outer edges with a pass no closer than 1.34 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IAO-252(C) entry kicks the day off, with a relatively close pass of only 0.58 Munar Distance tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering later today, sweeping up across the outer system will pass MVS-740(C) at no closer than 5.36 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering earlier today, HYJ-369(D) is a rare pass on a near-equatorial plane, inclined only 8.8° - slightly more than Minmus. It will come no closer than 2.08 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taken earlier at first sunrise today, Jool still shines bright setting with Mun to the west. This minute we are at opposition, with it being closest to us on this orbit, 58,384,877km away. Rising at sunset, setting at sunrise - this indicates an outer planet near opposition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SOU-798(C) will enter our SOI at the end of today and swing past no closer than 5.26 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
issues with the trajectory analysis tool that were causing problems giving us future SOI encounters for Alaba have been confirmed fixed. We will definitely continue to help make KSPTOT a more robust tool for everyone! forum.kerbalspaceprogram.com/index.php?/top…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we already expect 19 asteroids this month, so looks like the pace is not slowing up, although we still don't have enough data to really determine if that is the case yet. Also no impacts found yet for July - fingers crossed we stay clean!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we were only expecting 18 asteroids through our SOI in June, further detections throughout the month led us to discover 31. If that busy image looks scary, truth is we probably saw barely half of the number that actually was out there. Yikes!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GOV-314(C) joins today's previous interloper and is passing over the opposite pole as it tumbles by at no closer than 1.93 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NLV-174(C) has just entered the system to traverse by at no closer than 0.82 Munar Distance these next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-2-18 has been posted with a total of 2,190 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
turns out the ATN impact location for CNQ-846(C) was incorrect. They are still investigating how the error occurred so that it will hopefully not happen again - we would hate to get flattened by a rock we should have seen coming!
Kerbal Space Agency
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URQ-673(B) will swing around Minmus' orbit, coming no closer than 3.30 Munar Distance. Still no word from ATN on whether an unknown asteroid may have impacted the waters to the east of us earlier today
Kerbal Space Agency
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ocean has calmed and waves have receded. Thankfully it was also low tide, but although an asteroid was predicted to impact today it was supposed to land in water on the opposite side of our landmass. ATN is investigating
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
large waves have been washing up against the shores for almost an hour now, flooding seen in the are surrounding KSC but water has not yet reached or inundated the KSC campus, which sits several meters above the plain. Monolith dome also waterproof
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN keeping a close eye on PQH-598(C), which exited our SOI earlier today but will be swinging back around later this year prior to one orbit and pass just 0.15 Munar Distance, as opposed to its first recorded pass of 0.61 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZRZ-321(E) closes out June with a near miss of 0.08 Munar Distance. It is the 31st asteroid tracked through our SOI this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final entry for today (but not quite for the month) is TFZ-662(C), also passing within Mun's orbit at 0.57 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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we really should have said July coming in with a bang, as hot on the heels of the entry earlier this hour comes CNQ-846(C), which will cause a splash if it reaches the surface but poses no threat to any surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
less than a minute ago GNO-786(C) came barreling into our SOI for a relatively close flyby of 0.65 Munar Distance. It's the first in a barrage of 3 entries today. June going out with a bang - another month of 30+ encounters
Kerbal Space Agency
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Arekibo Radio Observatory passed its final build milestone today, completing the beam receiver structure suspended over the dish bowl. Project scientists will now begin the lengthy process of getting it ready to begin commissioning operations by September
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the closest known pass of the month, ZNA-698(C) will skim overhead just 117km above our atmosphere (0.02 Munar Distance)
Kerbal Space Agency
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exiting the system, NLX-694(C) will be coming back around in 2027 on a closer trajectory than its first pass - thankfully this hasn't been a common occurrence and most repeat visitors found so far have been predicted to return at further distances
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
detected just before entering our SOI, PQH-598(C) will traverse the system over this entire week, coming no closer than 3.28 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-25-18 has been posted with a total of 2,159 asteroids, 6 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the only class-D asteroid known to pass through our SOI this month, MLO-095(D) will come no closer than 2.14 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
look! Up in the sky! Is it a star? Is it a moon? Nope, just another asteroid roaming through the heavens. It's not naked-eye visible but if you have a good 3-4" scope you can spot JQJ-934(E) passing just 1.41 Munar Distance overhead
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you know what doesn't take the weekend off? Wandering asteroids. It's what they do. Until they hit something. Thankfully ZTZ-668(B) won't be hitting us, coming only as close as 1.86 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers suspect objects like these on long elliptical orbits were actually stolen from the icy outer belts of some of the other stars in our cluster. A better understanding of stellar motion within our nebula could someday tell us which came from where
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has discovered the furthest-traveling Kupier Belt Object to date, nearly doubling the distance of the last record-holder. It takes 5,175 years for this icy chunk of rock to make one orbit around Kerbol!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WTD-527(C) will zoom past at only 3.73 Munar Distance. It is the 22nd asteroid known to pass through our SOI this month and we are still expecting to track at least 9 more. 4 others are known to be currently transiting the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
making its entrance just now, VFP-629(C) will swing around us over the next few days coming no closer than 1.13 Munar Distance. Take note of the dotted red line. We keep wanting to see it moving towards us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NLX-694(C), entering late yesterday, is traveling from bottom to top - coming no closer than 1.96 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
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NRM-487(E) will thankfully stay well away, coming no closer than 3.45 Munar Distance as it tumbles lazily through our little bubble of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-18-18 has been posted with a total of 2,116 asteroids, 6 of which are updated with new orbital information. Has anyone ever wanted any additional information posted via twitter with these weekly reports given we have more characters available?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WGX-073(B) was discovered just before it entered our SOI today, though it won't be sticking around very long and coming no closer than 6.64 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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AJQ-465(C) will be visiting us at no closer than 1.83 Munar Distance before exiting later this week and continuing its eons-long tumble through the vast emptiness of space
Kerbal Space Agency
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VWU-240(E), coming no closer than 1.10 Munar Distance, is one of the 266 known class-E asteroids. Their average mass is 2,068,985t
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YKT-782(C) is now passing through, set to come no closer than 1.65 Munar Distance. Halfway through the month now we've tracked 15 entries and are still expecting at least 9 more. This month has seen a more normal rate of smaller asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the average-sized LFN-090(C) will tumble on by overhead, coming no closer than 2.93 Munar Distance. Of all the known class-C asteroids (1,011 of them), the average mass is 86,173.958t
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UOO-831(C) is actually not the closest miss this month, but scraping by at just 0.04 Munar Distance is still notable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed the trajectory and impact location for NUD-991(B), assuming it reaches the surface intact. It will still go into a long list for a future potential expedition to search for meteorites
Kerbal Space Agency
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KJC-383(C) late yesterday joined the 7 other known asteroids to be passing through in the next few days, coming no closer than 1.27 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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GVY-290(C) has just pierced the bubble of our SOI to travel through over the next few days, coming no closer on approach than 2.16 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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skirting through the system, DXK-784(C) will come no closer than 2.72 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-11-18 has been posted with a total of 2,080 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DES-075(A) wandered in to our SOI late yesterday and is set to swing past 1.23 Munar Distance away at closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a look at Alaba's orbital migration since it was discovered, with the number of days spent in that orbit before the next encounter. So far all encounters have been made at the descending node of its orbit, but that could change in the future
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba. Astronomers were accurate this time to within 5s. Its next passes will be on 7/11, 7/29 & 8/18 before a long stable period of at least 9 months. Another check of this furlough in SOI encounters will be made after the Aug one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EHQ-739(C) won't be causing much of a disturbance as it skims through at only 5.40 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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Alaba is now making its 9th predicted pass through Mun's SOI. It will be visible shortly afterwards and through tomorrow so we expect new orbital data late Sunday
Kerbal Space Agency
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DPL-409(C) made its entrance late yesterday into Kerbin's SOI and will come as close as 4.08 Munar Distance before heading back out into the sun-dominant gravitational region of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after observations yesterday, astronomers have posted new data for bit.ly/_Alaba that we've updated to our Ops Tracker. It's already set to encounter Mun again this Saturday, so astronomers are holding off on future long-term predictions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we knew of 18 going into the month of May and we ended up discovering 27 asteroids that flew by throughout the month. We expect similar numbers this month as well. Only one known impact last month and one expected so far this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-4-18 has been posted with a total of 2,054 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KUM-652(A) is our first near-miss of the month, skimming past at just 0.03 Munar Distance before getting slung back out of the system
Kerbal Space Agency
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since late 2016 ATN has found 5 comets on trajectories out of the system, but so far none have an eccentricity high enough to say they are interstellar objects passing through. Each new discovery tho remains exciting
Kerbal Space Agency
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ADW-045(E) is yet another skimmer, coming only as close as 4.09 Munar Distance - not that we're complaining. With increasing surface activity we're not as eager for any asteroids to visit us
Kerbal Space Agency
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discovered just today, CHO-363(C) recently passed through its 80,561.326km perikee (6.71 Munar Distance) and won't be sticking around much longer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTJ-566(C) came wandering into our SOI earlier today, won't wander too close at only 2.56 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first asteroid of the month has already entered the system, AHM-757(C) is set to pass at only 4.09 Munar Distance. We are tracking at least 18 asteroids this month, so on par with previous months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YKK-327(D) makes its entrance, zipping past at just 0.02 Munar Distance, or 225km higher than our atmosphere. Like most close fly-bys this month though it will take place over the daylit side of the planet, to astronomer's dismay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DJA-569(C) will be closely-studied for its colored composition, unfortunately its close pass at 0.08 Munar Distance comes on the sunward-side of the planet so only during approach and retreat phases will observations be able to be made
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered today already transiting the system, MIZ-645(E) came as close as 3.15 Munar Distance before it was found on its way out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UED-751(B) will be another one of the near misses this month, skimming past at just 0.05 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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busy day today as KUU-096(D) joins the other 5 known asteroids in the system at the moment, with one more coming later today still. It will be at 2.44 Munar Distance during closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-28-18 has been posted with a total of 2,008 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YJK-116(E) is another big asteroid that will not be paying us a visit any closer than 1.55 Munar Distance. This has been another month of higher than average numbers of class D and E asteroids passing through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CKL-937(E) thankfully tumbles on by nowhere near us, coming only as close as 4.20 Munar Distance. We have 5 more incoming this month, that we know about
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
making a pass inside Mun's orbit at 0.60 Munar Distance, ULU-509(E) will head back out into Kerbolar orbit at the end of the month
Kerbal Space Agency
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CXV-620(E) will make a brief visit to our neck of the woods, coming no closer than 4.48 Munar Distance before venturing back out into the vast unknown
Kerbal Space Agency
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three months of testing have found and resolved all issues with the data cabling run for the Arekibo Radio Observatory, which remains on schedule to complete construction in August of this year. It is planned to be fully operational by mid-2019
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WWZ-772(C) barged into our neighborhood late yesterday and will be passing no closer than 6.02 Munar Distance as it soars overhead. Asteroids aren't very polite, they just go where they please and smack planets with impunity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
big milestone for ATN Central observatory as the sixth and final mirror segment for its 10m telescope was announced completed today. The observatory remains on schedule for Aug end of construction. More details: kerbalspace.agency/ksa/?p=3736
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ockr Observatory had a small 15 min window late yesterday to catch the Tylo/Laythe double shadow/eclipse before sunrise and they nailed it! This was the last possible chance - most of these already occurred during conjunction while the sun was in the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-21-18 has been posted with a total of 1,982 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EBM-247(C) joins the fray - there are now 7 known asteroids in the process of passing through. It will come no closer than 1.75 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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EFW-353(C) won't be missing us but won't be a danger to any current surface operations either if it makes it to the water intact
Kerbal Space Agency
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KHH-193(A) will fling itself past us at only 0.11 Munar Distance. Because these types of asteroids are moving in orbits similar to Kerbin, the low relative velocity means even close passes like these generally are <2km/s. Our Progeny rockets return from space faster than that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more space rocks, comin through! WNL-884(A) is on track to pass us by at 5.14 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TOL-192(C) joins the 4 other known asteroids currently transiting through the system, although it will be coming closest so far this month at just 0.05 Munar Distance, under 1,000km over the surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there's a whole list of "peri" and "apo" phrases to make it more concise to identify around which body the object in question is orbiting closest or furthest from
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kicking another day off with an asteroid report from late yesterday. OUK-182(C) will trace a graceful arc overhead as it passes 4.57 Munar Distance at closest approach - generically referred to as periapsis but around Kerbin is known as perikee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are close to having enough faith in their predictions to plot out many future orbits bit.ly/_Alaba again, but in the meantime you can look back at its past orbits in the Ops Tracker - all are centered around the same origin so you can see the changes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NMW-789(B) is skipping through the outskirts of our bubble domain, coming no closer than 5.90 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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OVO-481(B) entered late yesterday and will skim by at just 0.11 Munar Distance - still not the closest pass this month though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers got a good look at bit.ly/_Alaba as it passed over Kerbin's night side & confirmed their prediction was accurate to within 10 seconds. New orbital data is posted along with the next scheduled SOI intercept on 6/4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USH-691(D) is helping to crowd up the neighborhood, set to pass no closer than 0.30 Munar Distance on its way through over this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things will begin to pick up this latter half of the month. KIX-601(D) is the most recent interloper, coming relatively close at 0.49 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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GRE-083(E) entered late yesterday and will be tumbling by at 3.16 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
later today Alaba should pass through Mun's SOI as predicted earlier this month. It will happen while Mun is in daylight so we will have to await new observations later this week to learn if the resulting orbit is as expected and know how accurate the prediction was
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-14-18 has been posted with a total of 1,960 asteroids, 1 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now entering our SOI, KWJ-852(D) will swing past at 2.03 Munar Distance before heading back into orbit around the sun. So far only ~15% of NKOs discovered have made, or plan to make, repeat visits of our system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WMN-106(C) is only this month's 5th asteroid incursion through our SOI that we know of, passing by at 0.72 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
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VHH-621(D) will swing past at no closer than 0.36 Munar Distance. Only the 4th known asteroid through our SOI so far in May, things are expected to pick up later in the month
Kerbal Space Agency
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Gilly will be dropping its shadow on Eve just before the end of today but the hemisphere of Kerbin with all the telescopes won't be facing it at the time. We can't wait for that gap to be filled by ATN's observatories in the coming years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-7-18 has been posted with a total of 1,931 asteroids, 3 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the software issue is still being investigated, astronomers have looked ahead only 3 orbits at a time (instead of 100) for the next Alaba SOI encounter and have found it to be 5/15 @ 01:33 UTC. We'll see in a few days how that pans out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EVN-365(C), third known asteroid of the month, will swing by at no closer than 3.06 Munar Distance over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
April saw 18 fly bys and 3 impacts from a full variety of asteroid sizes. We expect an uptick this month based on the current amount of known incoming asteroids already numbering 18
Kerbal Space Agency
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CDV-860(A) is one of 8 asteroids known (so far) to be swinging past closer than Mun this month. Coming as close as 0.22 Munar Distance it is still not the closest pass for May
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba has been posted. Until the software bug is corrected we won't be posting a prediction for the next encounter. Astronomers will continue to keep an eye on it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BIR-604(D) is our first known interloper for this month, staying out at 5.56 Munar Distance closest approach. Forecast is calling for a slightly busier month than last, with upwards of 20-30 SOI crossings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/LDL-466_C research team are packing up & heading home - numerous samples were collected to be studied further for any exotic compounds and the region will continue to be monitored for any long-term changes as a result of any kind of abnormal exposure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we asked the ATN for the time of Alaba's last close pass to Mun and set the Ops Tracker to show us the position of Alaba at that time - here you can clearly see the SOI transit. Astronomers should just monitor our Ops Tracker! ;P
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the good news is that failing to see this encounter coming is definitely a software error rather than a orbital modeling error and the investigation is underway to determine why it was missed. Meanwhile new orbital data should be up tomorrow after additional observations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers checking up on bit.ly/_Alaba have found it's *not quite* where they expect it to be, meaning the last time it passed by Mun (not visible to any scopes) it must have brushed through its SOI. This was not predicted - next pass was supposed to be 7/24
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-30-18 has been posted with a total of 1,915 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZUG-662(C) is the final known asteroid to enter our SOI this month, although it will be passing through mostly in May. It will approach no closer than 0.88 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite the myriad issues of a full polar expedition, the impact area of XTE-221(B) should receive some attention in the future, just not anytime soon, especially since bit.ly/LDL-466_C could still give scientists what they are looking for
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XTE-221(B) is coming in hot and will likely crater the southern ice caps. Spectral anomalies have been detected on it, but an expedition to recover samples down there is already daunting, moreso now with the recently-confirmed elevated radiation levels in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WIG-323(C) will be coasting through the outer system, coming no closer than 2.54 Munar Distance before returning to kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-23-18 has been posted with a total of 1,876 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LSG-004(C) will be swinging past outside of Minmus' orbit coming no closer than 3.31 Munar Distance. There are just two more known asteroids to pass through this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SMF-050(A) has just exited our SOI, which means the sun's gravity has more effect on it than Kerbin's. Had our planet's influence extended further, there was a strong chance of SMF-050(A) falling back around Kerbin once more to intercept Mun & be placed into a captured orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TAQ-192(E) is swooping through, passing by at 1.23 Munar Distance closest approach. If you haven't been keeping track, this is the 17th known to pass through our SOI this month so far
Kerbal Space Agency
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LPH-328(C) has just entered the system for a quick skip through the outskirts, coming no closer than 6.30 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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OSZ-570(C) will swing wide, staying out beyond Minmus' orbit at 3.26 Munar Distance during closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
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DPF-850(C) is getting slung almost straight up and out after a relatively close 0.26 Munar Distance encounter tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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OLG-148(D), discovered today, swung past just outside Mun's orbit and is now tracking out of the system to return to sun orbit at the end of this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-16-18 has been posted with a total of 1,857 asteroids, 6 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GZW-511(C) is the 12th asteroid of the month with only 7 more known to be passing by over the next 16 days. It will come no closer than 0.39 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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WXV-455(B) is coming in hot and will likely make it to the ground but pose no threat to any currently ongoing surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
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SMF-050(A), entering the system late yesterday, is making a relatively close pass over our north pole, coming in at 0.32 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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MQD-009(E) is the closest known visitor this month and will be briefly visible to the naked eye as it makes its pass just under 300km above our atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
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our second asteroid visitor of the day, JMN-257(A) is also sticking to the outer Kerbin system coming no closer than 4.09 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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AKB-598(C) will skirt past Minmus' orbit with a 4.51 Munar Distance closest approach as it "falls down" through our SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
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FCF-516(E) is one of the few known rocks that will tumble past closer than Mun this month, coming in at 0.84 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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QPX-370(D) is traversing the outer Kerbin system over the next few days, coming no closer than 3.68 Munar Distance along its way
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-9-18 has been posted with a total of 1,849 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
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SNL-632(A) will soar overhead at just 3.06 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
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PPM-636(D) will be making a shallow entry, is expected to break up and litter the land with a debris field several hundred kilometers long. A future surface expedition could look for large samples
Kerbal Space Agency
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BYZ-806(A) will be making a trip through Mun's SOI shortly after passing at 0.86 Munar Distance but will not be captured into Kerbin orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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researchers at the LDL-466(C) impact site report samples have been located and collected, although no obvious signs of bright glowing is evident. They say the area should be fully canvassed by the end of the month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/_Alaba has been updated with new orbital data & these day-long predictions made back at the end of 2017 continue to hold true with the next encounter set for 7/24. Astronomers now attempting to predict the event down to the second: 19:51:08 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered passing through Mun's SOI today, POA-346(C) will not be captured and is now on its way back out of the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what a mess! Hard to really pick out much from this jumble of trajectories but March was a record-setter for most known asteroids in a month (35) along with the largest percentage of Class-E asteroids (26%)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SQE-170(C) kicks off April, during which we expect a bit less than last month - astronomers predict no more than 30. It will make its closest approach at 1.24 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-2-18 has been posted with a total of 1,779 asteroids, 9 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers at Kravass were able to watch Alaba encounter & pass through Mun's SOI as predicted, down to the minute, back at the end of Feb. They'll be making new observations over the next 2 days to try for an even more accurate prediction of the next SOI encounter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 35th and final asteroid to enter our SOI this month sneaks in at the tail-end, beating Nov 2017's record of 33, JXQ-764(C) will pass by at no closer than 1.61 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SIQ-918(C) is the penultimate known asteroid to enter our SOI this record-breaking month, coming no closer than 0.70 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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we kept quiet because it wasn't assured but the Arekibo dish overcame numerous design & construction hurdles to exceed its original planned size and reach 200m diameter! Things remain on track to complete construction by Sept of this year
Kerbal Space Agency
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GCS-835(C) will hang a tight turn near us as it zips through the system, coming as close as 0.11 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JFZ-002(E) is thankfully not causing a splash on Kerbin like some of the other Class-E rocks have done so far this month, staying well away at 2.83 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XAS-584(B) is another one of the few smaller rocks to whiz past this month, coming fairly close at just 0.22 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-26-18 has been posted with a total of 1,751 asteroids, 6 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the pace remains hectic as NZF-473(C) joins the crowd in system, now numbering 6 with 3 more entering in the next 24 hours. It will come no closer than 3.93 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another outer-system SOI grazer, OTL-330(C) will stay beyond 5.07 Munar Distance as it slowly tumbles through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a quiet past few days the pace continues to pick up again with WHD-352(C) setting up for a pass by at 0.38 Munar Distance closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NRI-305(A), a tiny one for a change, will be swinging on through the remainder of this month, staying far out & beyond 3.34 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
inbound asteroid UOH-418(E) has entered the system & confirmation from ATN has been received that it will pose no risk to any current surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KGF-940(E) is the 7th Class-E to pass through the system this month, tying the record but that will soon be beaten as two more are already known to be inbound. It will pass at no closer than 1.60 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CEK-717(E) is yet another large rock that thankfully sails on by over the next week, coming as close as 0.25 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-19-18 has been posted with a total of 1,725 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FXM-636(C) has joined the five other known asteroids currently transiting the system and will swing past at just 0.36 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
swinging around the outskirts of the system, LFG-698(C) will come no closer than 5.32 Munar Distance as it passes through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XSB-620(D) has entered the system and will tumble on by at just 0.18 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BTU-228(D) swings wide at 1.97 Munar Distance. The number of asteroids to pass by still outpaces the number of days so far this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
find out more about the Ascension Mk1 designs released earlier this week via bit.ly/OpSummary3-12-… and tell us - are you doing anything sciencey this weekend?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering the system late yesterday, AHI-271(C) traces a familiar arc although only coming as close as 1.71 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ESO-711(C) is coming at us from "below" in this figure although anyone in the southern hemisphere would argue that it's coming from "above". Regardless, it will pass by no closer than 0.29 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nearing our SOI for entry later today, IQN-452(C) will pass by at no closer than 0.16 Munar Distance - which is still pretty close!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TLB-795(C), discovered today, is predicted to be captured into orbit around Kerbin after a Mun encounter in October of 2026. Hopefully by then we can also visit it! Alaba will most likely have been kicked out or smashed into Kerbin/Mun by then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has found the newer entry point for AXX-667(E) was calculated with data lacking the precision needed for accurate placement. Internal review will ensure all data sets are recorded with high-precision numbers & checked prior to use in calculations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-12-18 has been posted with a total of 1,692 asteroids, 8 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering late yesterday ZWL-681(C) is already the 14th asteroid so far this month, passing at a relatively close 0.20 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KIQ-236(C) is one of the closer near misses this month, slinging by at just 0.11 Munar Distance before making its exit later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OTI-215(C) is following a highly-inclined path through the system, coming no closer than 0.87 Munar Distance. Radio astronomers are using plots like these to help prep them for targeting the Arekibo scope later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XHQ-557(B) is now within our SOI and will be entering the atmosphere over the ocean. Marine warning has been dispatched but no boat trafic is expected to be in the area. Asteroid will likely break apart on entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fight to resume surface operations continues, get additional information on that and more via bit.ly/OpSummary3-5-18 - a relaxing weekend is wished upon all
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another day, another asteroid - thankfully also another miss! RAJ-061(D) will be a brief visitor, coming no closer than 6.33 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no significant fallout reported at the LDL-466(C) impact site from the unseen asteroid impact last week, the research team says they will finally begin to hunt for and collect samples of the asteroid next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC stayed high and dry, no damage reported to the coastline either. Asteroid Tracking Network is sure AXX-667(E) is what hit south of Umbarg, not another unknown asteroid, and is investigating why their updated impact position was off by 388km further east
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AVX-660(E) is inbound to enter the system shortly - we are seeing a relatively high amount of larger rocks this month so far. Thankfully this one will also stay well away, coming no closer than 2.65 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg is officially standing down from large wave alert. Sea rise should not have been enough to inundate KSC but a team will check out the campus after second sunrise later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while an increase in sea levels was recorded at the Umbarg doors, nothing catastrophic has come out of the event. Alert level is still high however against the chance that this was a dual-strike & second set of waves are still incoming from further away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg is closing its surface doors, advising the approaching ship to stay out in deep water. KSC is of course already evacuated so everyone is just hunkering down to see what will happen
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reports coming in from a merchant vessel nearing Umbarg traveling from Sheltered Rock that a bright glow was visible over the southern horizon even in the dawn sky. Either another asteroid has hit or the original impact point was correct
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a crew returned to KSC to enact emergency flood prevention measures and Umbarg's port access tunnel has also prepped its surface doors for rapid closure if needed, as AXX-667(E) is expect to impact in just over 2 hours
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/LDL-466_C research team returned earlier today and report although a layer of fine dirt is atop everything no large objects fell this far to damage anything. They'll be cleaning up all day and will inspect the impact sites tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XSP-408(C) is by far the closest miss we know of so far this month, whizzing by at only 226km above the atmosphere later this week, making it visible to small telescopes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no abnormal weather reported after the asteroid strike this past weekend, meteorologists say The Wall kept all of the fallout to the north of Kravass. Research team plans to return tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the researchers evacuated & made it safely to Kravass via airship. Data drives were pulled but all equipment was left behind. The team will resupply and return next week to assess any damage to both the camp and the LDL-466(C) impact area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
did anyone see any tweets from us this past Sat? We just noticed they are not in our timeline?? Big news: around 12:30 UTC that day an asteroid slammed into the ground roughly 20-30km north of the research station setup to monitor the impact site of bit.ly/LDL-466_C
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hot on the heels of AXX-667(E) comes ZKL-793(E), thankfully staying well away and coming only as close as 2.49 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AXX-667(E) is in-system and thankfully new observations put it much further east, with land between us and the impact site to help deflect any large waves that may result from impact or atmospheric explosion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XLG-554(A) has entered the system, setting up for a pass by at 2.23 Munar Distance at the end of this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-5-18 has been posted with a total of 1,674 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
IWE-434(C) will stay in the outskirts of the system at 4.56 Munar Distance closest approach over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HTB-382(C) will sail overhead at 1.42 Munar Distance during closest approach. 9 asteroids this month so far are known to come within 1 MD, with the closest just under 300km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LPK-499(E) will be skimming through our SOI over today and tomorrow, coming no closer than 6.21 Munar Distance. It could swing by again in late 2036 at around 3.4 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we got visited from all over this past month, with 20 asteroids whizzing past and 1 impacting - this is right inline with predictions made at the start of Feb. We expect an uptick in March - still too little data to know if there is a pattern here though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RST-650(B) kicks off March straight away, passing no closer than 3.75 Munar Distance. We are expecting a greater number of asteroids already this month at 24 with 3 impacts, one which could affect KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YSF-319(E) is the last known asteroid to wander through the system this month, passing by just within Mun's orbit at 0.91 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CEZ-877(C), 20th asteroid flyby this month, is almost out of the system after having passed by yesterday at 2.69 Munar Distance, one of the almost unseen. ATN suspects we're still only catching sight of around 30-40% of all the rocks passing through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-26-18 has been posted with a total of 1,628 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VMD-176(A) is exiting the system today and ATN predictions are holding true for another pass in mid-2029 that will bring it as close as 0.16 Munar Distance. It only came as close as 1.06 MD these last few days. A miss can become a hit sometimes, but not this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YNL-568(E) enters the system today, the penultimate asteroid for February that we know is passing through. It will pass by at no closer than 0.45 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AXX-667(E) is the more hazardous of two Class-E asteroids found so far to be impacting next month - thankfully neither are anywhere near the kiloton range possible for this class of asteroid. May still cause some waves though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed bit.ly/_Alaba will be intercepting Mun's SOI again on 4/1 just before 16:00 UTC - use the link to learn more information on our Ops Tracker, which is now updated with new orbital data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WXW-576(C) will stay way out past Minmus, coming only as close as 2.65 Munar Distance as it cruises on through the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cabling for Arekibo has been completed today, with the observatory itself preparing for the final stages of construction to begin next month after the dish is completed. Comms & data testing will begin next month as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you've actually been keeping track, you might have said of our last tweet: "what happened to #16??" QUU-784(C) entered the system yesterday and we were too preoccupied to report it. It will pass by at just 0.11 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AWL-691(C), our 17th known visitor through the system so far this month, is now in-system and soaring overhead - it will come no closer than 2.20 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a reminder that the asteroid bit.ly/LDL-466_C that crashed into the surface was one colored like MDG-147(B), suspected to be orange or yellow but it was unable to be confirmed before impact. Link has the latest on studies of the site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ockr Observatory confirms MDG-147(B) is indeed giving off a strong bluish glow, visible even against the sunlit portion of the asteroid. Astronomers currently baffled by what could be making such a glow in this and other rocks seen so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba encountered Mun earlier today just as astronomers predicted at the end of last year. Its next encounter is supposed to be 4/1 but astronomers will be collecting data this week to confirm and narrow down the hour it will happen
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-19-18 has been posted with a total of 1,602 asteroids, 6 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YER-070(B) is another near miss at only 0.09 Munar Distance. The closer they come the faster they go but most NKOs share an orbit similar to Kerbin's so speeds generally don't exceed 3km/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FZG-862(B) is one of the closer misses this month, coming just 0.08 Munar Distance, whizzing past at 2.1km/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VMD-176(A) will arc overhead coming no closer than 1.06 Munar Distance. It is the 13th asteroid to pass through this month and we are currently expecting at least 7 more, so on track for ~20 again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anomalous NKO MDG-147(B) will be passing close enough that scopes at Ockr and Kravass observatories will both get a shot at catching it when it zips by at 0.46 Munar Distance - it is expected to be a bluish color
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
QPJ-085(C) will only be spending ~9.5hrs in our SOI as it travels through today covering a distance of 31Mm. At closest approach it will be at 6.85 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ECS-666(A) arrived in system during our launch operations, it will enter over the Great Desert and likely burn up in the upper atmosphere but there is a chance some small pieces could strike the upper elevations in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DIE-747(C) will pass by at 1.11 Munar Distance, joining the other two known asteroids currently transiting the system. There may be as many as 3-5 others we haven't spotted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just some fun orbital data plotting, in this case a look at 5 orbits of Chikelu and Alaba showing the distance that separates them. In these plots they come to 7,256.118km away from each other at the last closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XGG-903(D) has entered the system to swing by at no closer than 1.70 Munar Distance. In case it's not obvious, Munar Distance is the distance from Kerbin to Mun (12Mm) not the closest distance from the asteroid to the Mun (in this case that would be 15,932km)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-12-18 has been posted with a total of 1,562 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JMM-782(D) will pass no closer than 4.40 Munar Distance and break up the C-class streak we've been having so far this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists are setting up a research station 50km from the LDL-466(C) impact site and will begin to make trips to the outer edges to collect samples for study as remote observations have continued to show no detrimental environmental effects
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
XNY-364(C) will only be coming as close as 6.22 Munar Distance these next few days. Although it may seem like we relegate these to the weekend, all asteroid plots are posted within one day of their SOI entry unless stated otherwise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZXR-250(C) will swing roughly straight between us and Mun passing at 0.55 Munar Distance. So far C-class asteroids have all we've seen whizzing past this month, but then they are the most common
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OKT-454(C) will give us a fairly close shave at just 0.14 Munar Distance as it passes through over this week. We are itching to get a better view of these rocks once Arekibo is online and able to bounce radio waves off them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-5-18 has been posted with a total of 1,543 asteroids, 4 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZZP-998(C) will come flying past at only 25km above our atmosphere next week, but will be crossing over the daylit side making any observations impossible unfortunately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JRP-715(C) is another one of today's discoveries, caught as it passes through the system. It will come no closer than 4.51 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered early today exiting Mun's SOI, ULN-141(C) will unfortunately not be sticking around. Astronomers continue to keep and eye out as best they can for the next capture
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although only 11 were originally expected at the start of Jan we ended up with 22 asteroids flying through this past month and 20+ is what we predicted the final count would be. A similar number is expected for Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
did you know three asteroids have been discovered around Jool so far? Yea, we forgot too - but now you can view them in the Ops tracker (zoom out after it loads) - kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/tracke…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sneaking in right before the end of the month one last asteroid, JNT-355(C), just discovered today will whip past us at only 0.15 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final run of sea cable for the Arekibo Radio Observatory is complete and while the junction station is being built at that point the land cable is on schedule to finish late next month so comms testing can begin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-29-18 has been posted with a total of 1,494 asteroids, 5 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YIA-152(A) is taking a scenic cruise through the system, in no hurry, and will come no closer than 2.71 Munar Distance along its way. This is the last expected asteroid to transit the system this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DDE-262(D) will skim through the system at 6.01 Munar Distance closest approach this weekend before heading back out into sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HJB-818(C) is one of two visitors expected today, both keeping outside of Minmus' orbit, 3.87 Munar Distance in the case of this one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VWU-324(E) will be coming down away from any surface ops, scientists are logging it for future research trips - hopefully soon we'll have satellites to help us check these sites out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-22-18 has been posted with a total of 1,482 asteroids, 7 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one asteroid was expected today and two were discovered already passing through the system. Details wll be in tomorrow's Asteroid Tracking Network report
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists are encouraged to see evidence of regrowth in the area of the LDL-466(C) impact, implying but not yet proving whatever mysterious material it carried is not dangerous. Debate still open on when it would be considered safe to approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AWG-668(C) will swing by at 0.18 Munar Distance over this weekend. ATN currently expects 5 more SOI incursions before the end of the month, with one non-hazardous impact on the 23rd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was hard to find an angle where it didn't look like HVR-628(A) was sideswiping Kerbin on its way through, but it really is nearly doing so at just 0.02 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-15-18 has been posted with a total of 1,442 asteroids, 23 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YUW-282(E) will swing by at 0.90 Munar Distance, it is rocks like these that astronomers hope to photograph with Arekibo using radar imaging once it is fully online later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HSI-144(D) is currently transiting the system, passing by at 0.61 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered just today WOY-159(C), SOI visitor #10, will sweep through the system coming no closer than 2.16 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the yearly census posted by the ATN earlier this week was the 2nd one conducted, here is what things looked like back at the start of 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering our SOI right now, SKE-168(B) is another close shave this month, coming as close as just 0.05 Munar Distance. It's the last we expect this month to fall under 1Mm (not counting the impact of VWU-324(E) on the 23rd)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here today, gone tomorrow, FQL-234(C) will skim through our bubble of space at 6.81 Munar Distance over the next day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CTE-519(A) is swinging by at 0.23 Munar Distance before exiting back out to sun orbit over the course of this next week. It is the 6th known passerby so far this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Asteroid Tracking Network has compiled their yearly census, and the increased effort at locating NKOs has certainly paid off - frighteningly so. It's a bit unnerving to see the majority of asteroids are the ones likely to hit us...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we knew of 21 asteroids set to pass through our SOI at the end of Nov; ATN monitored a total of 33 in Dec. Very similar to Nov, which also saw 33 with 20 initially expected. We know of 11 so far for Jan - now to see if we end up with closer to 20+
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-8-18 has been posted with a total of 1,416 asteroids, 19 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're back to full operational status here at KSC! We have a lot to look forward to in 2018 and over the past week at KSA HQ many meetings were had to finalize our general timeline for the year. Here's what to expect:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the closest miss of the month so far that we know about, ORB-033(E) will be passing us by less than 100km above the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-2-18 was posted earlier this week with a total of 1,387 asteroids, 33 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first spotted back at the end of November last year, AET-732(C) has entered our SOI on schedule & is confirmed to impact in the southern ocean. We doubt any adverse weather will make its way north to us but are prepared to monitor for unusual conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network kept watch on 12 new asteroids to pass through our SOI during the holiday, you can check out all their trajectories at bit.ly/ATNPlots
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fare thee well 2017!! Kerbal Space Agency signing off for the year! If you hear from us before the 1st of next month it's probably going to be nothing good. We still have one last bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1… for you all. Safe holidays everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over this next week although we will be on holiday the ATN will not - you can check bit.ly/ATNPlots for any updates on what's currently traveling through our SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have once again tried to predict the future orbits of bit.ly/_Alaba, this time just out to the next three encounters. We'll see whether updated calculations based on prior observational errors will help improve long-term accuracy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today saw the entry of ESW-859(A), the closest known asteroid to swing by so far this month, passing at just 0.06 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KZQ-830(C) entered our SOI earlier today, will approach no closer than 3.83 Munar Distance over the course of its transit through the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC evacuation did not take long thanks to operations ceasing last week but thankfully was unnecessary, no large waves have been spotted that should have reached shore by now. That was definitely a close one, thankfully appears to have exploded high up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's news not getting better - KSC tells us a large explosion was heard with a glow visible to the NE several min ago. Attempts to contact any ships have so far failed, we can only assume an asteroid. Emergency evacuation currently underway ahead of potential large sea waves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SZG-940(E) is this month's 20th asteroid to pass through our SOI, coming no closer than 1.57 Munar Distance as it does so
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have new orbital data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba and astronomers are looking at a new calculations for orbital propagation to attempt to make another long-term prediction later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-18-17 has been posted with a total of 1,360 asteroids, 18 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OKZ-211(C) is taking a big swing through the outer system, coming no closer than 5.25 Munar Distance during the remainder of this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has exited Mun's SOI - we will have a Flight Tracker update tomorrow with details of its new orbit. Astronomers confirm at least that it is still in orbit around Kerbin for the time being
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers at Ockr and Kravass observatories are watching Alaba pass by a nearly-full Mun, entering its SOI at this minute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surprise!! Latest observations of Alaba show it to be on a Mun SOI intercept later today. This is just a tad bit sooner than the "late Jan 2018" prediction made by astronomers and once again calls into question their long-term orbital propagation abilities
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AXZ-679(C) just entered the system for a polar overflight, closing to 2.14 Munar Distance tomorrow before exiting the following day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NXO-220(C) is another outlying asteroid passing through these next few days, coming no closer than 5.40 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OAL-393(C) was just discovered traipsing through the system for a pass by at 0.14 Munar Distance tomorrow before heading back out to sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC operations for 2017 are wrapped! Find out why via bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1… and catch up on this past week's activites. KSA operations are set to wrap next week - stay tuned for many year-in-review stats 🙂
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ground team is pulling out of the LDL-466(C) impact site. The area will be monitored over the next few months to determine if it is safe for further investigation into whatever the asteroid may have brought to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a ground team have begun to setup monitoring instruments in the region surrounding LDL-466(C)'s impact site, report no evidence of fires but localized damage visible from the air. Impact site itself will not be approached
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no radiation has been detected around the LDL-466(C) impact site - that we know of. A team of volunteers will move in later this week for a brief exposure to setup monitoring instruments to see how local flora/fauna react over the next few months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists have just released this stunning report of impacts noted by a seismic sensor network that has been established over the past year. We've discovered less than 50% of the asteroids that have hit us since late 2016. More details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6213
Kerbal Space Agency
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remote-operated airship is prepping to depart from Kravass, crew will control it from 50km away as it surveys the LDL-466(C) impact site to determine if any dangerous radiation is present around the area
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-11-17 has been posted with a total of 1,325 asteroids, 24 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
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CGC-657(A) is passing through the outer edge of the system at 3.98 Munar Distance for closest approach, beyond Minmus' orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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ZLK-086(C) is entering our SOI this minute for a pass inside Mun's orbit at 0.56 Munar Distance. It is asteroid #14 so far this month
Kerbal Space Agency
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VSM-775(D) will have by now impacted the surface, whatever of it survived passage through the atmosphere. It is on a list of sites to investigate further by field researchers
Kerbal Space Agency
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Maritime Service announces that the first run of sea cable has been laid to connect Arekibo to the mainland. While a team works to connect overland, the second run of sea cable will be laid over the next 1.5 months
Kerbal Space Agency
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ZMA-630(A) will make a pass at 1.32 Munar Distance tomorrow and head back out to sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/OpsSummary12-4… has all the extra details and information on what you may have missed this past week. Launch week starts in just two more days! Get hype! 🚀
Kerbal Space Agency
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SNF-841(C) passed through periapsis earlier today, coming as close as 0.40 Munar Distance - it now has a long slow climb ahead of it to get out of Kerbin's gravity well
Kerbal Space Agency
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JUO-991(C) will be coming down 210km west of Sea Ring crater, no danger is expected for Arekibo construction should it impact intact & entry path won't shed any material over the site either. Scientists have marked the site for future investigation
Kerbal Space Agency
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RDV-462(C) passed us by at 2.43 Munar Distance earlier today. We're already up to 12 asteroids that have entered our SOI this month alone
Kerbal Space Agency
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we've ID'd a potential issue with the latest bit.ly/KSPTOT that could have been responsible for affecting our Alaba propagation & are actively working with the developer for a solution
Kerbal Space Agency
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although photos were attempted as LDL-466(C) closed in on Kerbin, its entry was sunward and provided little opportunity for scopes at Kravass and Ockr to resolve anything
Kerbal Space Agency
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Kravass reports seismometers recorded an impact event to the north as LDL-466(C) slammed into the ground. An investigation of the area will launch next week. Again, this asteroid could contain some unknown material so utmost caution will be taken
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN gave up the search for LPL-416(E) earlier today, it broke up on either the 3rd or 4th pass through our atmosphere. Too bad no one really lives in the southern hemisphere - likely to be some pretty awesome meteor showers over the next day or so
Kerbal Space Agency
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TTK-404(C) has already passed by at 1.70 Munar Distance on its closest approach, now making its way out of the system by the end of this week
Kerbal Space Agency
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no sign of LPL-416(E) - both observatories adamant they couldn't have missed it before it came around for its 5th pass (of 7 total predicted). Looks like another watery grave but astronomers say they will keep looking just in case
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ockr Observatory is now on the hunt, Kravass will join in too by the end of the hour. LPL-416(E) would have made its 4th pass and should be over the horizon for both observatories
Kerbal Space Agency
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LPL-416(E) should have by now exited the atmosphere, Val says she saw nothing. No reports from Umbarg either. Its new projected (green) orbit based on previous observations is now so small it will actually make another pass before Ockr can even try to look for it later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is atop the VAB looking south hoping to catch some glimpse of LPL-416(E)'s re-entry trail just above the horizon - may not be bright enough before it falls out of sight thanks to the sun being up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN update on LPL-416(E) has it passing just south of KSC starting @ 23:23 UTC. Kravass reports they observed debris in the wake of the asteroid, so it may already be starting to break up, or just shedding a weaker outer layer? We'll find out later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kravass was able to spot LPL-416(E) easily with its IR scope as it cleared the horizon, radiating heat from re-entry. They will continue to observe it over the night cycle to determine details of its next passage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LPL-416(E) should now be re-entering our atmosphere again, once again descending through 24km with speeds up to 3.2km/s, slightly slower thanks to its lowered orbit. Kravass will be the only observatory in position to pick it up afterwards
Kerbal Space Agency
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AST-952(E) is another large rock passing through the system now, right now it is just 1.24 Munar Distance away as it passes through periapsis
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has updated information on LPL-416(E), now past apokee and falling for another pass through our atmosphere later today @ 20:13 UTC. They predict it should get at least one more pass after this. Time is too short to deploy a science team to the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GIA-259(C) is 3.62 Munar Distance away from us right this minute as it reaches periapsis, working its way through our system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LPL-416(E) has been spotted in orbit! Ockr got a clear observation shortly after sunset of its movement as sun angle is very favorable for lighting the asteroid. They will continue to observe over this night cycle, followed by Kravass. ATN to issue update later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
right this minute LPL-416(E) should be hitting 24km ASL as it screams through our atmosphere at 3.3km/s. Ockr Observatory will be the first to look for it after 2nd sunset, if not found we'll hear of any news from observation crew when they return to Umbarg tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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we thought our last asteroid announcement was close but QOZ-150(E) will skim just 475km above our atmosphere, passing at 0.05 Munar Distance. Not the closest pass this month but likely the closest that will also get away again
Kerbal Space Agency
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PHY-169(C) will be a pretty close pass at just 0.15 Munar Distance. The future ATN North and South observatories will be the ones to best view asteroids on polar trajectories like these
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-5-17 has been posted with a total of 1,309 asteroids, 29 of which are updated with new orbital information. They have also begun to include the bit.ly/KSPTOT Matlab file so you can lookup more detailed orbital data for every asteroid
Kerbal Space Agency
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RCW-177(C) is already past periapsis, when it passed us at closest approach of 3.72 Munar Distance, now on its way out of the system
Kerbal Space Agency
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DQF-086(C) is a rare SOI crossing almost on plane with us, passing by at 3.09 Munar Distance with an inclination of just 12.8°
Kerbal Space Agency
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there wasn't much we could do to clean this up due to software limitations, so some trajectories are not clipped properly. There were a whopping 33 known SOI entries this past month, with 4 known impacts. Normal? Only time and more data will tell
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
will LPL-416(E) be captured if it survives? Astronomers strongly believe so. Using data from bit.ly/Pilirani they calculate only a 0.039 drag coefficient would be needed for a capture. Pilirani's Cd was ~0.477 and it was a Class C vs. LPL-416 being a larger Class E
Kerbal Space Agency
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LPL-416(E) entered our SOI yesterday & astronomers have plotted out its 1st atmospheric pass south of KSC. Covering mostly water, scientists have setup an observation post where it will exit the atmosphere to see if any sign can be seen it survived the passage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BKE-978(A) was the first known asteroid to enter our SOI this month of the 21 that are expected to swing by so far this month. It will pass no closer than 0.12 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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we apologize again for failing to register our shortlink prior to publishing, causing a web bot to note the dead link & create one to a spam site :/ Horrible scammers out there. Catch up on this week's activities w/additional insight here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6168
Kerbal Space Agency
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KYC-457(A) will dip inside Mun's orbit at 0.43 Munar Distance, making it visible but still a challenge to see for amateur scopes even if you know where to look
Kerbal Space Agency
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UDN-121(E) is making a grand sweeping pass through the system, coming no closer than 5.66 Munar Distance. It's the 2nd to last asteroid scheduled to enter our SOI today
Kerbal Space Agency
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if we can collect pieces of this asteroid that make it to the surface, hopefully scientists can figure out just what is making this rock glow. Currently just 5% of all discovered asteroids have this property
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists are all very excited with the news of LDL-466(C)'s potential impact - it has anamolous spectra! Based on observations of previous close passes of similar asteroids, astronomers expect it to be an orange or yellowish color. Will be able to find out when it gets closer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AET-732(D) may only cause a big splash if it makes it down intact, but we've seen evidence that it could still have a noticeable weather effect as far away as here with all the moisture that could be tossed up into the atmosphere mixing with dust from the entry trail
Kerbal Space Agency
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VSM-775(D) will likely make a crater next month, but thankfully nowhere near any inhabited areas or ongoing field research projects. Eventually the impact location will be investigated for meteorites
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has discovered the first polar comet, HME-080(B) has an inclination of 90.6° and is actually an NKO crossing Kerbin's orbit but no worries - we are fine for the next 200 years at least
Kerbal Space Agency
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we hear reports of a large bolide that turned night to day has been reported by mariners, seen this past weekend just northeast of KSC. Lead Scientist Cheranne says she wants cameras installed to watch the sky every night from now on
Kerbal Space Agency
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OTI-215(C) is another post-SOI entry discovery, although just barely so. It's also already predicted to make a second pass through before it completes one orbit around the sun after exiting the system early next week
Kerbal Space Agency
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new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba and so far things are not too far off. We'll see how close we are for its next Mun SOI encounter in January 2018
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-27-17 has been posted with a total of 1,265 asteroids, 27 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
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say hello to ZLG-489(C) - okay now say goodbye as it sails past at only 6.92 Munar Distance, exiting later today
Kerbal Space Agency
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HUC-897(D) has entered the system for its pass through, coming no closer than 4.76 Munar Distance. Tumble on, lonely space rock...
Kerbal Space Agency
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NKO discoveries through our SOI continue to outpace the days in the month with the 28th asteroid being PMJ-405(B), passing by next week at 5.16 Munar Distance. Thankfully most also continue to stay well away
Kerbal Space Agency
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SGD-927(C) is now in the process of transiting through the system, coming no closer than 1.57 Munar Distance as it does so
Kerbal Space Agency
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similar events have been witnessed before, most notably Pilirani back in May of this year, which was captured and made multiple passes through our atmosphere before impacting somewhere over the open ocean. Recap: www.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered yesterday, additional observations have confirmed that LPL-416(E) will be making a low pass through our atmosphere, reaching only 24.6km above the surface. It will enter our SOI on 12/4 - a capture is possible, orbit is not hyperbolic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has exited Mun's SOI, reported by astronomers to have occurred @ 14:33:17 UTC, a bit faster than the originally-plotted exit time of 14:34:00 UTC. New observations will be taken today & tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers at Ockr observatory are watching as Alaba crosses paths with Mun again. It entered Mun's SOI @ 14:02:44 UTC; predicted time of entry based on original discovery observation was 14:03:03 UTC - deviation is increasing
Kerbal Space Agency
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XGE-931(E) was discovered on its way out of the system, exiting later today after passing by at 2.44 Munar Distance earlier this week
Kerbal Space Agency
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WGH-544(B) will be swinging through these next few days, coming no closer than 5.82 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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BNN-828(C) is another passerby staying well away at 1.32 Munar Distance - ironically its these that can get the slight nudge to come back around and hit us next time...
Kerbal Space Agency
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teams are out hunting down debris & inspecting the 25m-wide crater left by the largest chunk of JZL-411(C) to make it to the ground between Sheltered Rock & Ockr last week. Samples of the asteroid can provide clues to how our early planetary system existed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WDQ-606(E) will also be traversing the outer-edge of the system, passing no closer than 5.81 Munar Distance. The number of transiting asteroids this month continues to stay ahead of the number of days passed so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZKC-814(D) joins the growing list of transiting asteroids through our SOI, sticking to the outskirts coming no closer than 5.14 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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LXS-641(C) is just the first of three asteroids plotted to intercept our SOI today alone & by far the closest of the three but still only coming within 2.08 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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NQL-343(D) is the latest known asteriod to swing through the system, passing no closer than 0.36 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-20-17 has been posted with a total of 1,220 asteroids, 29 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weekend visitor PFA-700(A) is only passing by at 6.44 Munar Distance. It is asteroid number 19, matching the days passed in the month so far
Kerbal Space Agency
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VBC-280(A) will be making its way through our neighborhood over the next few days, passing by at 0.20 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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new data is posted for Alaba, get the details on that and more on this past week over at bit.ly/OpsSummary11-1… & have a great weekend everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
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Alaba is starting its first of 58 predicted passes through Mun's SOI right now. Astronomers will be able to take initial observations as it exits but will not get a better view until later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MCF-459(C) is making a pass by at 5.75 Munar Distance over this weekend. At least, it should be - it's hard to spot right now coming in sunward and overhead
Kerbal Space Agency
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CTG-432(E) impact expedition found no direct evidence of impact but along the shore is clear sign of large waves that went several hundred meters inland. Vaporized water kicked up into the atmosphere could have helped cause this week's spate of bad weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TDT-143(C) & HWG-708(C) fragments have been studied over the past two weeks & appear to have been from normal asteroids. Although disappointing this certainly doesn't make them worthless, they can still tell us much about the early Kerbol system
Kerbal Space Agency
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Asteroid Tracking Network astronomers have released a report with more details on how Alaba will be interacting with Mun over the next 4 years. We've published it on our site as well: bit.ly/AlabaReport
Kerbal Space Agency
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TXA-411(A) will be a nice challenge for smaller amateur scopes to find, passing by at 5.71 Munar Distance before exiting the system later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-13-17 has been posted with a total of 1,198 asteroids, 22 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kicking off another day with a new visitor, our 15th so far this month, DXO-534(E) has entered our SOI for a pass by at just 0.12 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
news coming in from Sheltered Rock & Ockr is that JZL-411(C) did strike the ground. They expect some minor debris fallout but no groundquakes have been reported. Scientists will explore the impact area next week to allow any fires to burn out
Kerbal Space Agency
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UTQ-655(C) impact trajectory has been confirmed upon SOI entry today to pose no threat to any surface operations, population centers or marine operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Air Safety Administration has grounded all airship traffic between Sheltered Rock and Ockr in advance of JZL-411(C)'s arrival. Everybody hunker down and stay safe over there!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZLC-062(C) is passing through the neighborhood @ 5.36 Munar Distance. It joins the six other (known) asteroids also currently in our system. ATN estimates we're now seeing about 40% of how many are actually out there at any given time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NNJ-719(D), cutting through below at 5.49 Munar Distance, is an anomalous asteroid but not observable this close due us currently having no polar observatories
Kerbal Space Agency
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OXN-919(A) is swinging by at 0.91 Munar Distance. ATN really has managed to step up their discovery rate lately, as promised earlier this year
Kerbal Space Agency
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DWV-441(C) is sweeping through the system, passing no closer than 2.17 Munar Distance but still on a good inclination for amateur observation
Kerbal Space Agency
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CTG-432(E) would have impacted by now & an expedition is set to depart this weekend to find out whether it reached land or splashed down
Kerbal Space Agency
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JZL-411(C) has entered our SOI & new observations move the point of impact just 6.727km to the east - great job by ATN on 1st prediction!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today ground is being broken for the ATN Central observatory, host to the largest visible-light telescope & dishes for our Deep Space Network. Set to finish construction in 2018 & operational in 2019, 2 of the 6 mirror segments making up the 10m scope have already been completed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Sheltered Rock has a team of engineers reinforcing the river access tunnel to withstand any groundquakes triggered by JZL-411(C) impact. Although the chance of one is low better safe than sorry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TBB-241(C) is another slinger that will whiz by at just 0.09 Munar Distance - though it will only be traveling @ 2km/s when it does so
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still a work in progress but astronomers have plotted Alaba's orbits out through 58 future encounters to find it smashing into Mun on 3/8/21. there will be a more detailed look next wk, astronomers say plotting out this far into the future a bit iffy still. Next encounter: 11/17
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PEE-554(B) will be traversing the outskirts of the system, passing by at 4.05 Munar Distance. It is the 7th asteroid thru our SOI this month
Kerbal Space Agency
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Kerman Observatory has won the friendly bet made last week with Ockr Observatory as VFA-737(C) was spotted passing through Mun's SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
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CTG-432(E), discovered just over a month ago, has been spotted entering our SOI on schedule & ATN has confirmation of impact location. It is highly likely this asteroid reaches the ground - scientists already planning an expedition to the area next month to see if it did
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
GMB-684(E) made its entry into our system earlier today & will swing by fairly close at just 0.18 Munar Distance over this next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
technically Alaba is the 5th captured moonlet of Kerbin but it is 2nd in relation to our only other current moonlet, bit.ly/Chikelu
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
say hello to bit.ly/_Alaba in our Flight Tracker, ancient Kerbskrit for "second child", the new name KAS assigned to KUH-563(C)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Arekibo construction will begin installing the several hundred bowl segments over the next 4 months that will form the reflective dish
Kerbal Space Agency
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living caverns in both cities should be safe even if there is a ground strike, which for this size asteroid is ~50/50 chance of happening
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has eyes on JZL-411(C), which is the closest to being a threat we've had so far. At worst, could affect Sheltered Rock water access
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-6-17 has been posted with a total of 1,169 asteroids, 23 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KKD-270(A) will pass no closer than 1.03 Munar Distance as it swings through the system over the next couple of days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFR-383(C) won't be sticking around very long as it skims the edge of our system passing at 6.93 Munar Distance (SOI extends to 7.01MD)
Kerbal Space Agency
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FUU-512(C) has recently exited the system, picked up late by ATN after searching for it since its scheduled SOI entry back on 10/30
Kerbal Space Agency
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an incredible rocket launch, some fancy pattern flying & new moonlet! Get all the details kerbalspace.agency/?p=5953
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
moonlet orbit (red) is shown in relation to Mun (green). It was discovered thanks to astronomers keeping a close watch on Mun for passing asteroids. Its orbit shows it has likely been around for a while. Naming process already underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers watched KUH-563(C) pass thru Mun's SOI back on Wed but have spent this time dbl-checking to make sure - we have a new moonlet!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has picked up KFF-610(B), which they've been hunting for since it was supposed to have entered our SOI earlier this wk. Course confirmed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Oct was another busy month where we were visited by at least 15 asteroids of all sizes. ATN lost track of 2 but is on the lookout for them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VFA-737(C) is already in a nearly-captured obt but will receive a kick from Mun instead of a brake (conflicting obsv question Mun encounter)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early today we welcomed a new visitor to our little corner of space as DIL-151(E) entered Kerbin's SOI, set to pass at 1.06 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-30-17 has been posted with a total of 1,145 asteroids, 14 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meanwhile TDT-143(C) fragments have been returned to Ockr for analysis. Both it & HWG-708(C) pieces will be carefully studied for anomalies
Kerbal Space Agency
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fragments of HWG-708(C) near Kravass have been found along the shore, but it looks like the majority of what made it down landed in water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN have made their longest future orbital trajectory prediction yet, saying centaur XUA-805(B) will pass thru Urlum's SOI in... 5154! 0_0
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JMM-782(D) is in our SOI & already predicted to swing thru again early next year. For now it will pass us by at a comfy 2.96 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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much earlier today HWG-708(C) was observed breaking up upon entry - expedition has been dispatched from Kravass to hunt down any chunks
Kerbal Space Agency
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RJT-490(C) will zip through the outer edges of our system these next few days, coming no closer than 5.76 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fireball was reported in the sky by airships flying near Ockr earlier today, saw it trail below horizon. Scientists plan to investigate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CGX-619(B) will pass us by @ 0.75 Munar Distance then encounter Mun for a flyby but will still eventually be ejected back out into sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HWG-708(C) has entered our SOI & ATN predictions for atmospheric interface were accurate. We expect a report from Kravass that same day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over the next week & change PSS-107(D) will pass by no closer than 2.19 Munar Distance, a little over 2x as far as it swung by last time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN celebrates 1st predicted asteroid return w/ PSS-107(D) passing thru a 2nd time, originally discovered 3/29/17 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-23-17 has been posted with a total of 1,120 asteroids, 15 of which are updated with new orbital information
Kerbal Space Agency
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JJP-868(C) is another mostly harmless asteroid incoming these next few days, with only a small localized effect should it reach the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
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if the fragments of this colored asteroid were giving off any sort of weird radiation or signature they were too small to detect w/sensors
Kerbal Space Agency
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the expedition to recover pieces of WAK-827(C) off the sea floor has concluded with no success. It was a long shot, but worth the effort
Kerbal Space Agency
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LPO-212(D) has SOI entry & will most likely splash after atmospheric entry, it's coming at us like a bullet. No danger to any surface ops
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN is keeping a close watch on UTQ-655(C), on course to impact our atmosphere on 11/14. Will have more details released on SOI entry 11/12
Kerbal Space Agency
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HWG-708(C) is on course for impact with our atmosphere and possibly the ocean. Astronomers from Kravass are planning to monitor its descent
Kerbal Space Agency
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TIK-210(C) has entered our SOI & is skimming through the Kerbin system the next few days, coming no closer than 5.58 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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IGC-111(A), just now entering into Kerbin's sphere of gravitational influence, will swing by at no closer than 0.33 Munar Distance this week
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-16-17 has been posted with a total of 1,098 asteroids, 26 updated with new orbital information & 0 new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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no idea still what the glowing material is or why it's green (or purple). A variety of sensors trying to pick up any weird readings at sea
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers have released the best photo taken of WAK-827(C) last week as it approached Kerbin. marine expedition searching the ocean floor
Kerbal Space Agency
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CII-502(C) will be slowly arcing way up & over, coming no closer than 4.06 Munar Distance before exiting the system at the end of next week
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-9-17 has been posted with a total of 1,074 asteroids, 13 updated with new orbital information & 0 new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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It'll pass on our nite side coming up from perikee but no scopes are anywhere near its trajectory. If Aerkibo were done, radar img possible
Kerbal Space Agency
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the closest shave so far this month, WPD-318(B) will skim <100km above the atmosphere when it passes by at just 0.01 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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GGC-335(E) is another large asteroid discovered that has now entered the system but will be coming no closer than 2.02 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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newly-discovered CTG-432(E) will impact 11/11 but ATN says it will pose no risk to any surface installations, will refine on SOI entry 11/8
Kerbal Space Agency
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LPO-212(D) discovered on impact trajectory but not expected to land anywhere near surface operations, ATN will confirm upon SOI entry 10/22
Kerbal Space Agency
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no big waves reported here at KSC or Umbarg. Which isn't to say WFY-338(E) didn't impact, it just maybe didn't create that big of a splash
Kerbal Space Agency
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we've already coordinated w/Maritime Service to deploy a ship to the south to detect any large waves heading our way. Umbarg in the path too
Kerbal Space Agency
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WFY-338(E) may have dropped in the ocean by now w/ a big enough splash to eventually cause some big waves along the south shore of the Cape
Kerbal Space Agency
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NEH-977(B) will be a close shave, coming just 0.02 Munar Distance tomorrow on its way thru the system before heading back out to sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN confirms WAK-827(C) impact site w/ SOI entry today. Due to its nature, scientists will mount an expedition to see if pieces can be found
Kerbal Space Agency
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Maritime Service has begun operations to lay the first run of sea communications cable from Arekibo, nearly 1,000km, over the next 2 months
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has confirmed impact location for WFY-338(E), which may make a big splash but will not have any detrimental effect on surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
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have a gander at all the asteroids that passed us by (ok, not all passed us by) over the last month. As promised more were found, 15 total
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-2-17 has been posted with a total of 1,037 asteroids, 20 updated with new orbital information & 0 new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
someday we plan to have all these added to our Ops Tracker so they can be explored in 3D - not sure what performance will be like tho haha!
Kerbal Space Agency
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here is just looking at the inner kerbolar system from just outside Jool's orbit (thick black lines are planets, where you can see them! :P)
Kerbal Space Agency
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happy anniversary to the Asteroid Tracking Network, which has found over 1,000 asteroids in its first year of operation! The big picture:
Kerbal Space Agency
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larger scopes coming online in 2018/19 will be able to hunt for it again to see if its trajectory is changed as astronomers have predicted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we can't see it but RYJ-911(A), a comet discovered back in May, is now skimming thru the outskirts of the Jool system on its way to apkelion
Kerbal Space Agency
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a shame this program was defunded but the new DSN scopes coming online after 2018 should be able to resume the hunt for gas giant moonlets twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just about to reach periapsis, OFO-236(C) was discovered today by the ATN. In a few minutes it will be 0.85 Munar Distance away from us
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has confirmed its original impact location for SPR-176(C), which entered our SOI earlier today. Ignore all "Asteroid Survival Kit" scams
Kerbal Space Agency
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just noticed we neglected to follow up on this tweet. This plan has since been superseded by the Deep Space Network: bit.ly/DSN-PR twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN ALERT: JJP-868(C) on trajectory for atmospheric impact 10/24, early plots show no danger to surface ops. Will refine on SOI entry 10/22
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN tracking ABU-633(C) out of the system on the course originally plotted after its Mun flyby; more assurance in our orbital modeling
Kerbal Space Agency
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if anything, 280 chars per tweet simply means we can use less acronyms & abbreviations. Have never felt we needed more room to communicate
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering the system earlier today, WZH-273(D) will pass no closer than 1.92 Munar Distance as it passes over us and back out to sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-25-17 has been posted with a total of 1,004 asteroids, 14 updated with new orbital information & 0 new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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it is unclear whether this asteroid is making its 1st pass through Mun's SOI or has been captured & undetected for some time before ejection
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomer's close watch on Mun has finally paid off w/a new NKO discovery earlier today. ABU-633(C) will pass Kerbin's N pole then exit sys
Kerbal Space Agency
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scientists are disappointed it won't impact over land however, as it is showing a spectral anomaly, pieces of which they would love to study
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN is tracking incoming asteroid bit.ly/WAK-827_C, like the two previous recent ones it is plotted to enter over water, no worries
Kerbal Space Agency
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YJP-548(B) is slowly skimming through the outer Kerbin system these next few days, coming no closer than 5.23 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
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just now entering the system, BZV-611(D) would've passed thru Mun's SOI if it were around, instead just coming & going @ 1.03 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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already past periapsis earlier today passing at 0.10 Munar Distance, TXN-490(C) was discovered earlier today on its way out of the system
Kerbal Space Agency
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since we are still here, just entering the system now is PKE-034(E), thankfully not causing us any additional problems @ 2.19 MD & no closer
Kerbal Space Agency
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22min from SOI entry, YQR-711(D) is plotted to pass over & under, coming no closer than 0.65 Munar Distance before exiting in a few days
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-18-17 has been posted with a total of 978 asteroids, 22 updated with new orbital information & 0 new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports the number of amateur asteroid hunters has grown large enough that discovery rates have seen a small but noticeable bump. Cool!
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers have worked out the inbound trajectory of SPR-176(C) & thankfully it will pose no threat to any surface operations next month
Kerbal Space Agency
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a close watch has been placed on SYE-954(E), latest observations show a closing Pe to Kerbin after a Mun pass in 2039, already at only 672km
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN alert: WFY-338(E) is inbound for impact early next month but will pose no risk to any surface operations. Science team considering obsv
Kerbal Space Agency
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FGY-735(B) has entered the system, one of the closer asteroids to pass us this month, coming only 0.05 Munar Distance as it zips on by
Kerbal Space Agency
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alert is for SPR-176(C), expected to impact Kerbin but current calculations are coming up with improbable results. Investigation underway
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-11-17 has been posted with a total of 952 asteroids, 8 updated with new orbital information & 1 new alert issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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XCI-819(C) has entered the system & will pass by at no closer than 0.74 Munar Distance on its way through. Tumble on, lonely space rock...
Kerbal Space Agency
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although it's likely it didn't survive entry intact, bit.ly/ZNS-924_A will be an area of interest for meteorite hunters in the future
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a couple smaller visitors is all we noticed this past month. ATN hopes to spot more in Sept. Closed orbits are outside SOI so no captures
Kerbal Space Agency
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JTK-884(C) has entered the system - busy day! Will be swooping by at only 0.35 Munar Distance before heading back into sun orbit next week
Kerbal Space Agency
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a 2nd new interloper has entered the system, WKM-529(C) is set to pass no closer than 3.34 Munar Distance, just inside Minmus' orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN alert is for ZNS-924(A), set to encounter kerbin over remote location but will most likely not survive its plunge through the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_9-4-17 has been posted with a total of 937 asteroids, 13 updated with new orbital information & 1 new alert issued
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so long, August! Another productive week here at the KSA, catch up on all the happenings + add'l details via bit.ly/OpsSummary8-28…
Kerbal Space Agency
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bad news: less & less NKOs found in larger data sets. ATN is implementing a new procedure to bring NKO discoveries back up to previous lvls
Kerbal Space Agency
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good news: increasing influx of growing amateur astronomer community observation data to ATN has lead to wider-range of asteroid discovery
Kerbal Space Agency
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as with all tracked asteroids Remises will be re-observed every orbital period, but vessel page will not be updated, just entry in ATN DB
Kerbal Space Agency
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so long, bit.ly/-Remises - asteroid is now back in sun orbit & obsv taken in its way out show it won't be back in the next 28 years
Kerbal Space Agency
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discovered today already transiting the system, WWQ-726(A) will pass by at 0.79 Munar Distance before exiting at the end of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-28-17 has been posted with a total of 916 asteroids, 16 updated with new orbital information & no new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while this is a triumphant proof of astronomer's predictions at last, sad to see the largest moonlet of Kerbin leave - forever? We will see
Kerbal Space Agency
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observations from Ockr after bit.ly/-Remises passed overhead at Pe confirm it is on an escape trajectory to exit the system on 9/1
Kerbal Space Agency
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you can also see Remises transiting Mun's SOI via our dynamic system view
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
30min to Mun SOI for bit.ly/-Remises, Flight Tracker will show its predicted plot past Mun & update later today with new orbit data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers sad to see the largest of our captured asteroids go, have been collecting as much data as possible for analysis in coming months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/-Remises missed Mun's SOI by 1,629km earlier today & it won't miss next pass. Soon it should be on a Kerbin escape trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-21-17 has been posted with a total of 902 asteroids, 16 updated with new orbital information & no new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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finding was accidental but astronomers noticing that Mun intercepts are surprisingly common, are watching it closely for passing asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
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new asteroid found exiting the system tomorrow, plotted w/o SOI constraint would actually be in orbit, but intercept Mun & then be ejected
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers hope to get out there in the next few weeks to hunt for fragments, workers say they didn't see/hear any signs of ground impact
Kerbal Space Agency
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we're just getting word of a large bolide sighted Thurs by workers on the Arekibo Radio Observatory, saying it fell S of Sea Ring Crater rim
Kerbal Space Agency
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HJL-310(B) entered the system earlier today & astronomers finally had a chance to take a look at it, passing no closer than 2.54 Munar Dist
Kerbal Space Agency
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weekly ops review - 3rd Ed! All hail the weekend - catch up on this past week's activities & w/additional info via bit.ly/KSAOpsSummary8…
Kerbal Space Agency
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PMJ-405(B), original plot shown, will be back in Nov ~2x further away. It is the 2nd known asteroid to return before completing one orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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the worst news from Arekibo tho is new dish design will be only 86m instead of 180m :/ Big blow to radio science but still largest dish ever
Kerbal Space Agency
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keologists say they will be able to use some material already dug out, but still construction will be delayed at least 2 months to Sept 2018
Kerbal Space Agency
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Arekibo announced they are shifting construction from an inground dish to a built-up bowl for better fabrication as natural rock is unstable
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering the system about an hour ago, HUS-400(B) is another far-ranging interloper, coming no closer than 2.46 Munar Distance passing thru
Kerbal Space Agency
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two in one day, SOY-675(B) is now within Kerbin's SOI, remaining outside of Minmus' orbit and coming no closer than 3.94 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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FHO-157(C) has entered the system, will slowly travel thru the outer edges over the next few days, coming no closer than 3.65 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-14-17 has been posted with a total of 876 asteroids, 8 updated with new orbital information and no new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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this month astronomers wrap up observations on bit.ly/-Remises before predictions say it is sent off on an escape trajectory 8/27
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering the system late yesterday, PMJ-405(B) will come no closer than 3.16 Munar Distance as it passes through
Kerbal Space Agency
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GZQ-838(B) is now entering the system, our 2nd known asteroid this month, and will swing by at 0.55 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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our first known interloper in August has recently entered the system: KXL-975(C) will skim past at just 0.08 Munar Distance before exiting
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_8-7-17 has been posted with a total of 857 asteroids, 15 updated with new orbital information and no new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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we share plots of ALL discovered asteroids so if you don't see any for a while it means we haven't found any recently. But they're out there
Kerbal Space Agency
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there was a little bit of everything in the 14 known asteroids to visit us last month. Monthly reminder we are in a cosmic shooting gallery
Kerbal Space Agency
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discovered just today, NMK-358(C) will skim past Minmus' orbit, tho the moon will be nowhere nearby, after passing us at 1.8 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-31-17 has been posted with a total of 844 asteroids, 13 updated with new orbital information and no alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering the system earlier today, JNR-740(E) will pass by in a few days at 2.18 Munar Distance before heading back out into sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-24-17 was posted yesterday containing 830 asteroids, with 7 updated observations and no new alerts
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN really kicked back into gear when Kravass came back online - 20 asteroids discovered yesterday from the backlog. Here is the breakdown
Kerbal Space Agency
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troubling news from Arekebo: multiple wall collapses of the dish bowl have hampered construction. Engineers are considering other options
Kerbal Space Agency
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earlier today HJI-518(C) entered the system. Passing by at 5.71 Munar Distance will be a challenging observation for amateur astronomers
Kerbal Space Agency
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these Kupier Belt Objects just keep outdoing themselves. HJW-927(C) drifts less than *1m* closer/further from the sun along its orbit 0_0
Kerbal Space Agency
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the Kerman Observatory gathers & processes all data from Ockr & Sheltered Rock to search out asteroids so ATN can finally return to the hunt
Kerbal Space Agency
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good to hear the Kerman Observatory at Kravass is operational again. Up at the top of the mountain, it was unaffected except for power loss
Kerbal Space Agency
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finally, ATN reports PSS-107(D) is the 1st known return in less than 1 orbit, coming back around on 10/23 @ 2x the distance of 1st pass here
Kerbal Space Agency
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FZF-893(C) exited the system as predicted, which is pleasing to our astrodynamicists after so many bad Mun encounter predictions w/ Remises
Kerbal Space Agency
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RDT-565(A) entered the Kerbin system on 7/16. it will also pass overhead, coming no closer than 3.92 Munar Distance on its way through
Kerbal Space Agency
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getting caught up on our asteroid news, SVN-155(B) entered the system on 7/13, arcing high overhead coming no closer than 1.3 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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this latest ATN report contains a total of 788 asteroids along with 17 new observations of known asteroids. No new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-17-17 has been compiled thx to Sheltered Rock & Ockr picking up the slack as Kerman Observatory @ Kravass still offline
Kerbal Space Agency
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we finally have data-link restored to Umbarg, which is also back in touch with Kravass which in turn has re-linked w/Sheltered Rock & Ockr
Kerbal Space Agency
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tl;dr - the Monolith electronically fried the entire KSC campus when the Mk4 passed 70km, also managed to knock out Umbarg & Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/KSA-Statement this is our Ops Summary for this week, because there's really not much else to talk about
Kerbal Space Agency
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FZF-893(C) is now encountering Mun, still predicted to not be captured. We'll have an update on it from the ATN later in the day or tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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BCG-321(A) is a new temporary resident of the Kerbin system, skimming past us at 0.14 Munar Distance before heading back out to sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-10-17 has been posted, containing now a total of 786 asteroids, 10 of which have new observation data. No new alerts
Kerbal Space Agency
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earlier today along came GNN-883(C), which will arc up and over Kerbin these next few days, coming no closer than 0.94 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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FZF-893(C) is also due to cross over into our SOI late today, passing by at 0.55 Munar Distance. Prediction shows no Mun capture
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has an early bead on XJZ-741(C), which will enter our SOI later today, swinging by at just 0.12 Munar Distance on the way through
Kerbal Space Agency
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MEG-594(D) crowds the space around Kerbin, joining 5 other asteroids currently making their way thru the system, passing 1.10 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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we are getting reports from mariners of a bolide spotted over the north Kerblantic. Likely a small Class-A asteroid. No doubt more unseen...
Kerbal Space Agency
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OYZ-376(A) has just now entered the system, making it the 4th asteroid in nearly as many days this month. It will pass @ 1.09 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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as predicted (yay!), UYV-181(D) is zipping out of the system later today after its encounter with Mun yesterday. Fare thee well, then!
Kerbal Space Agency
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PSS-107(D) has just entered the system and will be taking a leisurely pass through, coming no closer than 1.07 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
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UYV-181(D) is now passing through Mun's SOI and we expect an update for it from the Asteroid Tracking Network sometime late tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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all the (known) asteroids that swept past us (and partially through in one case!) in June. The one closed orbit is indeed still hyperbolic
Kerbal Space Agency
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late yesterday AAW-151(A) entered the system, will pass us by at 0.49 Munar Distance. Tumble on, lonely space rock. Trouble us not
Kerbal Space Agency
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with the mission this morning we forgot - bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-3-17 weekly update contains 755 asteroids, 15 updates, no new alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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just now entering the system, UYV-181(D) will swing past Mun tomorrow after passing us at 0.5 MD. ATN is saying it will not be captured
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-26-17 weekly update contains 736 asteroids with updated data for 9 NKO asteroids. No new alerts have been issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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QEF-511(C) has left the system & will not be returning anytime in the next 28yrs. Same result if projecting based on original trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
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another new interloper has begun its transit of the system, QQG-165(C) will be passing by at 0.61 Munar Distance. It is June asteroid #10
Kerbal Space Agency
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QEF-511(C) has been spotted & observed with a noticeable but small change (red) to its original trajectory (green). It has not been captured
Kerbal Space Agency
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MTZ-313(C) has just entered the system, were it will pass outside Minmus' orbit the next few days, coming no closer than 2.05 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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just entering the system now, the 8th known asteroid to cross our SOI this month, MAR-406(E) will pass by at 0.65 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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its current orbit extends not far outside Kerbin's SOI, but doubtful enough drag will exist to pull its apokee down to a capture trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
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QEF-511(C) is beginning its N/S pass thru the atmosphere to a depth of 52km. Arikebo was not evacuated. Expecting news no earlier than Sun
Kerbal Space Agency
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NQQ-864(A) has entered the system and it sure won't be sticking around for very long, passing only as close as 6.93 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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time to close out the work week! As usual, review of this past week & extra details available in our Ops Summary: bit.ly/OpsSummary6-19…
Kerbal Space Agency
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unfortunately if their predictions hold true this time then Remises will be kicked out of the system on its next Mun encounter on Aug 27th
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/-Remises has new orbital data & astronomers have found & fixed the problem with their orbital trajectory propagation software
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers are getting ready for their first chance to observe Remises since its Mun pass early today, will have new orbital data tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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a science team is already prepping to depart from Kravass to lay out ground stations for seismic & audio recording along the trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
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QEF-511(C) observations are in. It will pass near Sea Ring crater as it dips 18km into the upper atmosphere late on the 23rd, local time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're glad Remises is sticking around but once again long-term orbital predictions have proven false, astronomers looking into why this is
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers are flummoxed to discover bit.ly/-Remises is on course to intercept Mun's SOI in the early hours of tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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Lead Scientist Cheranne is on KNN again to discuss the facts on 2nd upcoming asteroid encounter, has been moved to prime time now. Progress!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've updated our original Deep Space Network story to include data cable plans, mostly laid by Maritime Service bit.ly/DSN-PR
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
*low whistle* KBO FVC-765(A), discovered today, has a 0.00000000000090530800013643 eccentricity. That is 1.26 *meters* diff between Ap/Pe!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-19-17 has been posted, totaling 729 asteroids w/ 10 new observations. QEF-511(C) (52km Pe) entering our SOI early Wed
Kerbal Space Agency
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HFF-172(C) is due to enter our SOI in the early hours of tomorrow, will swing below us @ 2.10 Munar Distance before heading back out next wk
Kerbal Space Agency
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MYN-154(C) will pass through the system at 0.22 Munar Distance over these next few days, entering into our SOI just before the end of today
Kerbal Space Agency
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just entering the system now FBH-468(A) will give us a relatively close shave at just 0.49 Munar Distance before heading back into sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering the system earlier today, GKD-614(C) will skim through at no closer than 1.71 Munar Distance, our second observed asteroid of June
Kerbal Space Agency
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keologists have been assigned to the Arekibo dig site while the bowl is excavated, they are excited to study an impact uplift in detail
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_6-12-17 contains 674 asteroids & covers all the new data gathered these past 2wks since they missed a dispatch last wk
Kerbal Space Agency
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this could be one of the most pristine bits of the early Kerbolar system, part of the original circular ice/dust cloud & not knocked around
Kerbal Space Agency
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at 0.000000000036515 eccentricity, KBO BQD-321(E) is the new king of most-circular orbit. That's only a 44m difference between Ap/Pe!!
Kerbal Space Agency
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they assert that kerbals were taken when it passed close to Umbarg, Sheltered Rock & Ockr - despite the fact no one can find anyone missing
Kerbal Space Agency
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the fact that no one saw Pilirani impact has only emboldened Monolith conspiracy theorists telling everyone that it was really a spaceship
Kerbal Space Agency
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no direct evidence, but signs of large waves washing high up along the shoreline indicate something struck the water. Investigation ongoing
Kerbal Space Agency
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we hear that a science team from Kravass finally made the trek north today to check on the suspected asteroid strike & confirmed impact
Kerbal Space Agency
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zipping in and back out, IPL-050(A) will be coming no closer than 0.04 Munar Distance - we've had enough for close encounters for a while!
Kerbal Space Agency
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Arekibo construction resuming today after engineers confirm no damage was done to existing dish bowl by the passage of Pilirani last weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN reports after exiting today, new obsv show SYE-954(E) will skim thru Mun's SOI w/ 1.5Mm Pe in 2039 then scrape past Kerbin @ only 673km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientific community still abuzz, however reminders have gone out - wacky weather could be developing over these next several days. Noted!
Kerbal Space Agency
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unfortunately the fact that Ockr saw it vanish below horizon means Pilirani's ultimate fate remains a mystery. Most likely: water impact
Kerbal Space Agency
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news moved quick & some kerbs were fast enough to get topside & spot it from Sheltered Rock & Ockr as well. Rough plot of trajectory:
Kerbal Space Agency
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NO WAY, IT'S PASSING THRU JUST WEST OF US!! Bob managed to spot it w/Val's help just in time to grab this photo as it zipped across the sky
Kerbal Space Agency
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BREAKING! Mariners headed to Umbarg reporting flaming trail low in the skies to the west. Bob grabbing his telephoto lens & rushing outside
Kerbal Space Agency
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right now most scientists turning attention towards the impact north of Kravass and getting a research team together to check it out soon
Kerbal Space Agency
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and now... what? No one knows. Even if it made it out, wouldn't be visible in sky day/nite anywhere we have scopes before it came back!
Kerbal Space Agency
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here we go again in 5min! Too soon to setup new science stations & too much water anyways. Not sure if we'll ever know what happens
Kerbal Space Agency
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can it survive another pass? As in, even if it stays intact can it climb back out of atmo once more? Unfortunately we may never find out
Kerbal Space Agency
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spotted! bit.ly/Pilirani has new orbital data, will be coming back around today. It knocked its apokee from 73,809km to just 3,315km
Kerbal Space Agency
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we will have to wait a bit longer for scopes at Ockr to catch it on nite side. If can't be found, will wait to hear from science stations
Kerbal Space Agency
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asteriod should already be high enough for Kravass IR scope to see, but even it can't peer well enough thru thick clouds piling up overhead
Kerbal Space Agency
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Pilirani could now be back out in space - or a bunch of flaming debris scattered across the surface of Kerbin. We await news either way
Kerbal Space Agency
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Pilirani is about to pass through the atmosphere, traveling roughly 737km in about 3-4 minutes. Science stations set w/seismic & audio
Kerbal Space Agency
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apparently word now is Pilirani is really "the mothership" making repeated passes through the atmosphere to collect the "true believers"
Kerbal Space Agency
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speaking of the worshippers, actually way less here than expected. Jeb says most @ Kravass trying to convince airships to fly to Sea Ring
Kerbal Space Agency
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please, no one run the odds on this - it's already bad enough out there right now w/all the Monolith worshippers & conspiracy theorists
Kerbal Space Agency
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we still can't believe, an actual asteroid strike on a day when kerbs were already semi-freaking out over one that wasn't going to impact
Kerbal Space Agency
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2h30m until atmo entry & you can see where bit.ly/Pilirani will be catching up to Kerbin's rotational speed as it approaches perikee
Kerbal Space Agency
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also they can confirm that this could not be Pilirani as the trajectory is completely different. Still expecting Pilirani atmo entry today
Kerbal Space Agency
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given the amount of clouds forming to the north they suspect it either impacted & vaporized lots of ocean or exploded w/ similar effect
Kerbal Space Agency
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after a rushed but careful investigation ATN has announced that temblor characteristics/ eyewitness reports indicate a minor asteroid impact
Kerbal Space Agency
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we're waiting for the Asteroid Tracking Network to confirm 1) this was an asteroid and 2) this was *not* Pilirani. Kravass reports 0 deaths
Kerbal Space Agency
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we're getting reports of a minor groundquake in Kravass & airship captains report seeing a streak of fire & bright flash north over horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
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all the (known) asteroids that have passed through our system in May, with Pilirani's original hyperbolic orbit & current capture orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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builders were concerned the asteroid's pressure wave might collapse the slopes of the bowl wall, but scientists assure this won't happen
Kerbal Space Agency
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Arekibo Radio Observatory construction site is evacuating all workers today in advance of the atmospheric re-entry of Pilirani tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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earlier today at 08:40 UTC bit.ly/Pilirani rolled through Apokee and is now on its downward fall back to Kerbin, arriving June 3rd
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers doubt Classe E asteroids could have satellites, but def think there are larger objects still to be found between Duna & Jool
Kerbal Space Agency
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this prediction has held up to a 2nd observation just done today (when the mistake was noticed) but astronomers still unsure it will hold
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN have a surprising revision to make - the current Pe pass of BDN-506(C) @ 938km in 2030 is not for Kerbin, but for Minmus!!
Kerbal Space Agency
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everyone say hello again to our newest captured asteroid, this time by its proper name - bit.ly/Pilirani or "persevere, endure"
Kerbal Space Agency
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other than its massive size, SYE-954(E) is an inconspicuous rock that will tumble past us at no closer than 1.57 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-29-17 comes early this week, totaling 615 asteroids, no new alerts. 9 asteroids have been re-observed for new data
Kerbal Space Agency
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construction at Arekibo resuming after 2 days constant rainfall, an odd weather pattern for the region that has left meteorologists puzzled
Kerbal Space Agency
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Kravass Observatory gearing up for yet another look at FZX-816(C), they are using the thermal signature to try & approximate its size/shape
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN says they've found a comet skimming Jool's SOI later this year. They will use RYJ-911(A) to closely study Jool's gravitational effect
Kerbal Space Agency
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alright here we go - all the ops from this past week + exciting details on a newly-captured asteroid, get it here: bit.ly/OpsSummary5-22…
Kerbal Space Agency
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holding off on our ops summary so we can include details on FZX-816(C), Kerman Observatory still looking at it right now until 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
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they are still working out the orbit details & will need another round of study this next night cycle but location found indicates capture
Kerbal Space Agency
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news is out: found it! IR telescope at Kravass Obsv picked up FZX-816(C)'s post-entry heat easily once they found the right place to look
Kerbal Space Agency
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the hunt is on! Asteroid should be high in sky during night time, Kravass Observatory already looked last night cycle & will again this one
Kerbal Space Agency
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news from Ockr earlier: apparently sonic booms were heard throughout entry corridor, no air blast or ground strike. FZX-816(C) aerobraked!?
Kerbal Space Agency
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something should have happened to FZX-816(C) by now, but it is literally on the other side of the planet. We will not know until tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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scientists left Ockr earlier this week to place several seismic & audio stations along the entry corridor to detect impact/mid-air explosion
Kerbal Space Agency
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FZX-816(C) is scheduled to enter the atmosphere around 22:00 UTC. Once again, threat to kerbal civilization is ZERO - Ockr is closest city
Kerbal Space Agency
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kerbs have been showing up to pray at the Monolith to ask for deliverance & that the oncoming asteroids be diverted away from Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
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again, NO IMMEDIATE DANGER TO KERBALS! latest scam: No, you do not need air filters when visiting the surface after the event occurs
Kerbal Space Agency
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results of obsv: higher Pe than expected, dive thru atmo on opp side of Kerbin. Most likely will break up & burn up before hitting ground
Kerbal Space Agency
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we have confirmation from ATN that astronomers have FZX-816(C) in sight as Kerbin rotates around to face it, making observations (obsv) now
Kerbal Space Agency
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everyone clamoring for asteroid news today will just have to wait - FZX-816(C) is not due to cross over into our SOI until around 00:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
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KNN late day segment hosting our Lead Scientist Cheranne to explain the facts about the 2 upcoming asteroid encounters in 30 min. Tune in!
Kerbal Space Agency
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discovered today with a record batch of 19 other asteroids, GKA-991(C) will swoop by at 0.25 Munar Distance, leaving the system on Thursday
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers continue to regularly monitor bit.ly/-Remises & report that so far it is holding to predicted encounter in early Sept
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-22-17 has been posted w/588 total asteroids. Tomorrow we should hear details on FZX-816(C)'s upcoming atmo entry
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering the system at the start of today, CNZ-568(C) will be shooting up and over from below, coming no closer than 0.46 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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regardless, any impact would be localized to a ~200km radius and would be on the *opposite side of Kerbin*. So calm down, everyone! /PSA
Kerbal Space Agency
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Class-C asteriods have a good chance making it thru atmo but sometimes don't & these are entering shallow enough to most likely burn up
Kerbal Space Agency
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PSA: scammers are at it again. You do not need an emergency survival kit for the impending asteroid encounters. Ignore the offers!!
Kerbal Space Agency
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what is the most circular asteroid orbit around the sun? That honor goes to NBS-453(A) w/ 0.000066546 eccentricity (72,728.06km Ap/Pe diff)
Kerbal Space Agency
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despite the late start to construction of the bowl, other peices have been on sched & builders insist they can still hit mid-2018 target
Kerbal Space Agency
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at last, after several delays, the first blasting has begun to clear the 180m diameter bowl in which Arekibo Radio Observatory will sit
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN ALERT! 2 C-asteroids w/ Pe low in atmo. Will know more upon SOI entry 5/23 & 6/20. Early predictions show atmo entry opp side of Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-15-17 is now online with 570 asteroid total, no new alerts. 10 asteroids have new observational data
Kerbal Space Agency
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there are probably ~5-10 more asteroids out there right now that we don't see for various reasons. Sunward, not enough sky coverage, etc
Kerbal Space Agency
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with HWX-180(C) we are now tracking 5 asteroids currently working their way through the system. This one will pass no closer than 0.39 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
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the photons that reach EBH-150(D) when it is at apokee left the sun 8 hours, 28 minutes and 30 seconds beforehand
Kerbal Space Agency
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for a little perspective 9,146,666,817.298km is 13.5x farther from the sun than the most distant-known planet Plock. Waaaay out there!
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN reports it has found the longest-period KBO to date: EBH-150(D) takes 1,926yrs to loop around the sun. Apokee is 9,146,666,817.298km
Kerbal Space Agency
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yet another space rock cruising through the outskirts, TSN-639(B) will come no closer than 4.14 Munar Distance. Was discovered back on 5/1
Kerbal Space Agency
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interesting fact: yesterday was the 12th of May and ATN catalogued 12 new asteroids. This isn't normal though, avg finding is ~3-5 per day
Kerbal Space Agency
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catching up on more asteroid news XPT-127(C) is just now crossing our north pole @ 1.29MD. No scopes can see what color it is, unfortunately
Kerbal Space Agency
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asteroid DVF-804(D), discovered back on April 9th, earlier today swung past us at 1.46 Munar Distance & will zip back out of the system tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
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you can check out the new observatory locations on the surface map, we have added labels for them: bit.ly/KerbinLabels
Kerbal Space Agency
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exciting news! Full details on the new ATN/KAS observatories & our Deep Space Network coming over the next 3-4 yrs: bit.ly/DSN-PR
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN says they've found a rogue Trojan perturbed perhaps by Sarnus or collision JLZ-679(C) appears on course to intercept Jool's SOI in 2150
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-8-17 is now online with data on 27 new asteroids for a total of 542. 5 updated observations on known asteroids. No alerts
Kerbal Space Agency
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at only 0.06 Munar Distance, BNI-599(C) is the 4th-closest asteroid to pass by Kerbin on record since Oct 2016. Record closest is 103.890 km
Kerbal Space Agency
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LFU-209(D) is the first known asteroid to pass through the system this month, coming no closer than 0.50 Munar Distance on its way through
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has released a plot of all the known asteroids tracked through the system this past month, totaling 12, with one impact
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-1-17 has been posted, containing 515 asteroids, no new impact alerts or noteworthy discoveries
Kerbal Space Agency
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Passing no closer than 0.82 Munar Distance, UXV-787(D) skims Mun's orbit on its way to periapsis and only misses Mun's SOI by 8,033.634 km
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers had to backtrack another recently-discovered asteroid about to exit the system. REN-161(C) didn't come much closer than 6.96 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
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XCC-171(C) entered the system at the very beginning of today & will just skim through, passing no closer than 4.18 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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they couldn't decisively determine the cause of the error in their last prediction, so are having another go at it to see how it works out
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers have a new prediction for bit.ly/-Remises next encounter, expecting it to enter Mun's SOI again on Sept 7th of this yr
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-24-17 has been posted, containing a total of 494 asteroids thanks to a windfall on 4/18. No new impact alerts issued
Kerbal Space Agency
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Asteroid Tracking Network says they have upgraded several key scopes under use for asteroid hunting, expect to see a bump in discovery rates
Kerbal Space Agency
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just now leaving the system for deep space, AMK-781(A) was spotted yesterday & buzzed us by a mere 0.14 Munar Distance earlier this week
Kerbal Space Agency
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the initial candidate sites for ATN observatories (including our DSN dishes) have been decided & final selection will be announced in May
Kerbal Space Agency
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JJP-001(A) is passing too far below, but if it were 90° either direction it could have possibly been on a Munar intercept at 0.97 MD perikee
Kerbal Space Agency
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PHS-174(C) will pass at 3.15 Munar Distance, traveling directly over the north pole. It is the 8th known asteroid to visit us this month
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-17-17 has been posted. No new alerts. Poor seeing conditions only collected 5 new asteroids this past week, 468 total
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/KVP-605_D would have impacted earlier today. If an asteroid slams through the air & no one sees it, does it make a sound?
Kerbal Space Agency
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KAS reports that bit.ly/-Remises remains in a captured orbit & they are still looking into how this last encounter was almost missed
Kerbal Space Agency
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we'll have more on this unforeseen pass tomorrow. Astronomers are hoping to simply find a bug in their orbital propagation software...
Kerbal Space Agency
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we imagine there are desks being flipped in some astronomer's offices - announcement just made: Remises set for Mun SOI encounter in few hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
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VXZ-344(C) will come no closer than 1.15 Munar Distance as it swings through the system these next few days, passing below Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
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tracking southward from its entry point, any impact will occur over water. Uncertainty surrounding event means no team in place to observe
Kerbal Space Agency
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it looks like data from the Sheltered Rock observatory was correct, and bit.ly/KVP-605_D will be entering out atmosphere on 3/17
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-10-17 has been posted. No new alerts but various new observations. Total asteroid count now stands at 463 space rocks
Kerbal Space Agency
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the space around us is crowded these days! UYV-747(D) will arc through at no closer than 1.43 Munar Distance. Sail on by, trouble us not...
Kerbal Space Agency
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BAS-034(C) will be making a shallow pass these next few days, coming no closer than 5.34 Munar Distance. Kerbin's SOI extends out to 7.01MD
Kerbal Space Agency
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IZC-884(C)'s periapsis will bring it between us & the sun, which is a shame because it's a spectral oddity astronomers would love to image
Kerbal Space Agency
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skimming through at no closer than 4.94 Munar Distance, SYB-802(C) pays a brief visit to the Kerbin system these next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering the system late yesterday, DUZ-216(C) is our 1st (known) asteroid flyby of April, passing 0.45 Munar Distance at closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
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here's a plot from the ATN of all the known asteroids that swung through the system last month. Closed orbits extend beyond SOI - no capture
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_4-3-17 is posted with numerous observation updates but no new alerts. Known asteroid count now stands at 445
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronomers will continue to revisit this projection after each Mun pass, but if they are right it's sticking around through at least Nov
Kerbal Space Agency
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KAS have released a conservative 3-encounter projection for Remises after several days studying its new orbit, seems it gets tossed all over
Kerbal Space Agency
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time for another retrospective look at KSA milestones as Duna completes its first orbit around Kerbol since our space program began last yr
Kerbal Space Agency
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found it! ALB-098(D) is similar to Chikelu, but the orbit is not closed enough to allow Kerbin to capture it. Will pass by at 1.78 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
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Kerbal Astronomical Society has announced that bit.ly/ICX-922_A is now called Chikelu, ancient kerbskrit for "brought into existence"
Kerbal Space Agency
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UYV-787(D) is the second to last asteroid that we know of ahead of time to enter our SOI this month, will pass 1.34MD at closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/-Remises is back in orbit around Kerbin & astronomers will be re-observing its orbit to see how well they predicted this pass
Kerbal Space Agency
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in just under two hours bit.ly/-Remises will exit Mun's SOI back into orbit around Kerbin. Not getting punted out yet!
Kerbal Space Agency
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in 10 minutes bit.ly/-Remises will begin its 2nd recorded pass through Mun's SOI, which you can watch happen via the Flight Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
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even if it is just a simple calculation error, it highlights the fact that the ATN still has a ways to go in properly observing asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
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ALB-098(D) was supposed to show up in our system today, but nobody can find it. Most likely ATN calculated SOI entry time incorrectly
Kerbal Space Agency
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scientists are very happy they got to witness this event, say it will provide years of research data for both asteroid air & ground impacts
Kerbal Space Agency
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reports from the Kongo River says compression wave from asteroid airburst was far greater than anyone would have guessed for one that size
Kerbal Space Agency
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swinging by these next few days no closer than 1.13 Munar Distance is CEO-972(B), which was first discovered by the ATN back on March 19th
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-27-17 is now online w/ 419 asteroids. KVP-605(D) has conflicting observations, may be an impactor. ATN will check further
Kerbal Space Agency
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LUV-678(C) is not only the first asteroid discovered to pass close to Eve's SOI, there's a chance it will actually skim through in late 2055
Kerbal Space Agency
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the naming of ICX-922(A) is still under deliberation over at the Kerbal Astronomical Society but we expect word from them soon on a decision
Kerbal Space Agency
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heads up amateur astronomers - bit.ly/ICX-922_A makes its perikee pass tomorrow, will be visible from our night side during this time
Kerbal Space Agency
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oh right, it's the end of the week. We've been so busy it sort of skipped our minds. Everyone relax this weekend! bit.ly/OpsSummary3-20…
Kerbal Space Agency
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a new interloper has been discovered already swinging through the system, will pass well outside Minmus' orbit & head back out to sun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
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the recovery operation will be getting underway soon to grab meteorite chunks from the various craters & also strewn across the surface
Kerbal Space Agency
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we have reports from the asteroid watchers that BTS-121(D) broke up in the upper atmosphere & rained down smaller pieces over a 250km swath
Kerbal Space Agency
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scientists in the area have cleared out and will report from a distance of 500km if anything strikes the surface via seismic equipment
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/BTS-121_D-upda… shows both the old & new atmo impact points, with the new one 47.8km northwest. Not too bad of a prediction!
Kerbal Space Agency
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new SOI companion JBC-361(C) is a relatively near miss, passing 0.28 Munar Distance from us on its way thru the system these next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
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BTS-121(D) enters our SOI late today and we will have an updated impact point tomorrow from the Asteroid Tracking Network
Kerbal Space Agency
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scientists at the bit.ly/KongoRiver site are evacuating today ahead of bit.ly/BTS-121_D, which is predicted to impact on 3/23
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-20-17 is now online, cataloging 402 asteroids with new data for several NKOs that have completed an orbit since discovery
Kerbal Space Agency
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QAS-238(D) is the 4th asteroid to pass through this month so far. Is a colored rock but will pass at only 2.3MD - too far for a good image
Kerbal Space Agency
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word from the ATN is that Meeny won't be passing through our SOI anytime w/in the next 27 years, but they will continue to keep tabs on it
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/ICX-922_A is about to pass Pe on its 11d orbit. Have a good scope? You might see it low to the south before 1st sunrise tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
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new release posted for bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-13-17 - 390 asteroids & no new alerts besides bit.ly/BTS-121_D that was reported last week
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has found its second long-period comet. Heading back now to the distant Oork cloud far beyond Plock, OFN-964(C) will return in 143 yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
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it will take a few minutes, but you can indeed load 3 orbits of bit.ly/ICX-922_A in the Flight Tracker, which would span over 34 days
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN says VQS-860(C) is a potential hazard, it's currently calculated to pass <500km in 2036 & that's *very* close for a long-term prediction
Kerbal Space Agency
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same scientists who saw an airburst earlier this year, twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr… they are very close to bit.ly/BTS-121_D!
Kerbal Space Agency
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incoming! ATN says we should expect a minor impact later this month on the 23rd from bit.ly/BTS-121_D - a risk to scientists in area
Kerbal Space Agency
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so long, Meeny - we hardly knew ye! ATN will now spend the next few days tracking its new orbit around the sun to see if it visits us again
Kerbal Space Agency
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15 min until Meeny departs our SOI and heads back out into interplanetary space in orbit around the sun. Final update here: bit.ly/-Meeny
Kerbal Space Agency
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just a reminder that early tomorrow bit.ly/-Meeny will be leaving the system - for good? We'll know about that sometime next week
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN says they've found a comet-type asteroid in the main belt around Dres' orbit. Proof not all our water came from the Oork/Kupier region?
Kerbal Space Agency
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we are certainly sad to see it go. Once it's back in sun orbit the ATN will see if it will be passing by us again anytime in the future
Kerbal Space Agency
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after double & triple checking, astronomers confirm that Meeny is on an escape trajectory from Kerbin. More details: bit.ly/-Meeny
Kerbal Space Agency
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entering our SOI earlier today, IZR-540(C) will skim quickly through the edge of the system, coming only as close as 3.84 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
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although its a clean miss passing 0.27 MD, there's a chance MTN-533(C) could return on a trajectory 0.86x closer (or more) in mid-2049
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN is on point this week with an early release of bit.ly/ATN-DB_3-6-17 sporting 364 asteroids, no new near-pass or encounter alerts
Kerbal Space Agency
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Meeny is passing at high latitude over our night side these next several hours, so if anyone hasn't seen it yet, here's your last best shot!
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/-Meeny should now be on an escape trajectory from Kerbin's SOI. We expect confirmation from astronomers tomorrow or Tuesday
Kerbal Space Agency
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bit.ly/-Meeny is now in the SOI of Mun & will traverse it in 1h55m. You can still see orbital data, tho we have no surface map yet
Kerbal Space Agency
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don't forget you can also watch Meeny catching up to Mun from the south on the Kerbin surface map - bit.ly/2kbswxm
Kerbal Space Agency
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5 mins now until bit.ly/-Meeny enters the SOI of Mun. It's catching up to Mun, so it will be dragged along & will pick up velocity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fateful encounter of Mun & bit.ly/-Meeny will occur in 30 mins, you can use the link to monitor progress on the Flight Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was a great half-week back at KSC, still plenty to get caught up on via bit.ly/OpsSummary2-27… - have a great weekend everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
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ATN has released a combined plot of all the 8 (known) asteroids that passed us by last month. No impacts reported or sighted in Feb either
Kerbal Space Agency
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skimming on by overhead this weekend, IAR-540(C) will drift past at 3.69 Munar Distance during its closest approach to us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered on its way out of the system, ATN's plot of KIP-560(A) appears to have passed by at roughly 2 Munar Distance at closest approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over this next year the ATN will be bringing online some small observatories around Kerbin dedicated to watching the sky for asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
newest release of bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-27-17 lists 339 asteroids, meaning only 12 were found in the last wk. ATN working to increase that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2.58 Munar Distance will be the closest regular stony AZO-949(D) passes to Kerbin as it saunters through the system over these next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now that the Eve transit is over, scientists will begin investigating any remains of bit.ly/BSZ-694_B & bit.ly/MHG-908_D
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thx @Geolu_Henge for suggesting DGU-266(B) bear the name of its discoverer. So it is! Kerbal Astro Society approves bit.ly/-Remises
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered on its way out of the system, KGN-200(C) doesn't appear to have come very close on its travels through our neighborhood
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can find out more info on its Flight Tracker page bit.ly/-Meeny. It looks like we'll be saying "so long" to Meeny on March 9th
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
using updated models from the recent DGU flybys, astronomers have taken another look at Meeny & find it's likely getting kicked out next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a new transit composite has been released showing the motion of Eve in addition to the motion of Moho from last month's transit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered already traversing the system, YYM-017(E) will only pass as close as 4.05 Munar Distance, is not expected to return anytime soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbal Astronomical Society says they will pick a new name for DGU-266(B) at the end of the week so send us your suggestions if you haven't!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
New weekly release for the bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-20-17 now cataloging 327 asteroids. No new impact alerts, no updated data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the expedition is departing today to observe Eve's transit & also investigate bit.ly/BSZ-694_B & bit.ly/MHG-908_D impact areas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's unlikely we'll ever know when DGU was captured into orbit, but hopefully soon we'll know if it will be staying around long or not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no one has yet found past evidence of DGU-266(B). Not knowing how many times it has passed thru Mun's SOI makes things much more complicated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YXZ-649(B) will be passing by us at 0.10 Munar Distance on its way through the system. ATN projects it won't be back within the next 100 yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still, this will help better refine the orbital modeling used & astronomers hope that they'll be more accurate next time, at the end of Mar
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been uploaded for bit.ly/DGU-266_B and as you can see below, astronomers still can't predict orbits very well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
newest release for the bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-13-17 contains some updated asteroid information & a total of 305 space rocks. No new alerts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aaannnd it's out. bit.ly/DGU-266_B has exited Mun's SOI and astronomers will begin observing its new orbital trajectory immediately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in about 20 minutes bit.ly/DGU-266_B will be entering Mun's SOI for a flyby. You can use the Flight Tracker to view its progress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for even more details check out bit.ly/ICX-922_A over in the Flight Tracker or view its orbit in the bit.ly/KerbinSystem overview
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BREAKING NEWS! Just in: a 3rd moonlet of Kerbin has been discovered. The twist: Mun was not involved in its capture bit.ly/ATN-PR4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we expect to see published papers from the astronomical community on these two recent observations at some point in the next few months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several hours ago astronomers got our closest glimpse of WJQ-185(E) from 19,780km and they are amazed to find traces of magenta instead!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WJQ-185(E) is coming close, which in this case is excellent because it too has a weird signature & will be studied closely as it swings by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the really amazing thing about BDN-506(C) is it's one of the asteroids with weird spectra, and an optical image has scientists all abuzz
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the discovery of BDN-506(C) comes just as it's on the way out of the system. Doesn't look like it ever came very close by on its way through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been working with them on their proposals, since we plan to also piggyback on this for our eventual Deep Space Communications Network
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
excellent news from the ATN, which has gotten initial funding to begin picking sites for new surface observatories all around Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can learn more about what the line colors represent and see better detail in the hi-res 2560x1359 img on flickr: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spac…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weekly Asteroid Tracking Network database update brings our total count of known asteroids up to 279 bit.ly/ATN-DB_2-6-17 this is what that looks like
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZIP! GWU-962(C) is skimming through these parts over the next few days before departing... for good? ATN will of course follow up on it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this past week has reminded us all once again that our endeavor can be hard at times. More details in our bit.ly/OpsSummary1-30…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbal Astronomical Society has officially opened the naming of DGU-266(B) to the public. Send us your suggestions! Name chosen end of Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
did you see ATN has found a KBO that crosses the orbit of Plock/Karen? They suspect the binary system has several tiny moons yet to be found
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
see both orbits of the two moonlets over at bit.ly/KerbinSystem - don't forget you can hover your cursor over the dots for details
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a 2nd moonlet! Check out the cool story of how bit.ly/DGU-266_B was discovered totally by accident - bit.ly/ATN-PR3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BSZ-694(B) fell into our atmosphere earlier today. As we noted before, it will be investigated with an expedition later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these are all the asteroids that visited us this past month. ATN says they suspect we only saw ~35% of the rocks that passed us. Yikes!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if true, it's current projected trajectory should still be visible from our night side so this should only take a day or two to confirm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN is scrambling to make their own observation of a 2nd asteroid in orbit around Kerbin after a report came in from an amateur astronomer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so far all the strange asteroids have been detected in the main asteroid belt between Dres & Jool. Great to know some are closer to us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists would actually love for WJQ to hit us - it's giving off one of the weird spectroscopic signatures they've been detecting!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN weekly database update available: bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-30-17 WJQ-185(E) periapsis is within error range & a potential impactor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists say they plan to scour the surface for remains of both asteroids when they reach the area late next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
asteroid bit.ly/BSZ-694_B atmospheric entry point will put it right in the region of bit.ly/MHG-908_D - quite a coincidence!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unsure at this time why so many impacts occurring - could be normal, we need to continue to collect more data thru ATN to determine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the possible impact of bit.ly/MHG-908_D will not be investigated until later in Feb at earliest, scientists have their hands full!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anyone else think that week just flew by? Get more details or get caught up on what went down with our Ops Summary: bit.ly/OpsSummary1-23…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word from ATN is earlier distance error w/ RAK-186 was a data-entry mistake. They are re-working their procedures, dbl-checking past entries
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN says they are also still getting conflicting observations on whether BSZ-964(B) will be impacting Kerbin next month or flying by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this asteroid has a high likelyhood due to its size of making it to the ground intact. If so, effects will be local, no danger to kerbs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
results are in for bit.ly/MHG-908_D impact area from observations made after it entered our SOI earlier today. Will come in over land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the hits & misses keep coming - here's another cosmic whiff as KOJ-698(C) cruises by @ only 2.12 Munar Distance. Could be back in future tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these peices of primordial rock from the early kerbolar system will hopefully reveal many details about how the system formed. Very cool!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
small fragments have been recovered from other known impact sites, but these chunks are several centimeters large & numerous
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word from across the globe has finally reached us that scientists are picking up RAK-186(C) asteroid pieces from a wide impact field
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TWE-585(E) will thankfully only be passing as close as 1.72MD as it cruises through the system over the next week, hopefully never to return
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists are rdy to see what happens to bit.ly/RAK-186_C tomorrow, are stationed 150km away ready to move in after the event occurs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this asteroid is well within the normal +/- 500km range of error - predicted pass made earlier this month was for 248km at periapsis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a new record for closest asteroid pass - KYM-011(C) will skim only 34km above our atmosphere later this month. No need to duck tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists are ecstatic though, because if anything survives to reach the ground it will be very easy to find atop the tundra surface ice
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as of right now they are not sure where the discrepancy is in their calculations, but it is by far the largest error they've seen to date
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN is a bit shocked to find RAK-186(C), predicted to pass 0.32 MD, is actually on impact course with the northern tundra of Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has released their weekly asteroid database update. Total count so far 239. No new impact projections - bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-23-17
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
right now their best guess for how it got ejected was a swing past Jool or Sarnus that sent it off on a slingshot past the sun. See yaaaa!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has found SMG-751(C) traveling at ~7km/s on a trajectory out of the Kerbol sys. Is just beyond Jool & will pass Plock's orbit in <3yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers, faced with conflicting reports from 2 observatories on ZSO-717(C), weren't sure if it was inbound or not til today. .39 MD @ Pe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has its weekly database update ready for your perusal should you be so inclined to have a look. 221 found so far bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-16-17
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has news on Meeny - it's nowhere near where they thought it would be by now. Read the full details over at bit.ly/ATN-PR2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/-Meeny has now exited Mun's SOI and tomorrow astronomers will start observing to collect data for determining its new orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/-Meeny will be entering Mun's SOI in ~30 minutes for its fourth pass, it will take just about 2 hours to travel through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new observations for bit.ly/-Meeny have been made and it's already set for another Mun encounter, its 4th, very early on 1/13
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLH-058(C) will come buzzing past at just 0.06 Munar Distance on its way through the system these next few days. Hi! Bye!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
of course by that same measure it could end up passing farther. Generally error range is +/- 500km. Will know when it enters our SOI on 1/24
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN is flagging KYM-011(C) as a potential impactor. Predicted to pass 248km at Pe, range of error in observations means it could be closer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no one knows what sort of elements are being represented, which is exciting - hopefully we discover one closer to Kerbin for better analysis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has confirmed that some asteroids are giving off weird spectroscopic signatures - they have currently marked 9 w/ variances w/in group
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they are keeping a close eye on BSZ-964(B), which has a good chance of impacting Kerbin beginning of Feb if data on it is indeed accurate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has their 1st weekly asteroid database update posted: bit.ly/ATN-DB_1-9-17 they had a record 1-day finding yesterday of 14 new 'roids
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists will be searching the bit.ly/AirburstArea for any fragments that survived the explosion, estimated to have occurred 5km up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
expedition out to the site where an asteroid was seen entering our atmosphere has found widespread devastation to local flora, all flattened
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/-Meeny is on its new orbit about Kerbin. New observations will occur in 2-3 days when it swings back around night-side
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there's also another way you can watch the event, via the surface map w/Mun also visible as Meeny catches up to it - bit.ly/MeenyMun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for the second time this weekend, bit.ly/-Meeny will be passing through Mun's SOI. Entry will occur in ~15mins and will last 1h46m
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/-Meeny is back in Kerbin's SOI but it will encounter Mun again tomorrow on the other side of its orbit @ 11:50 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/-Meeny is about 5 minutes away from entering Mun's SOI - you can watch it happen and see the new orbital data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this will be the start of the double-Mun encounter predicted last year by astronomers. Meeny will encounter Mun again on 1/8 @ ~11:49 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
don't forget bit.ly/-Meeny will be passing by Mun twice this weekend. You can watch it enter/traverse/leave Mun's SOI @ 16:03 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can find the definitions for the various asteroid categories in the comment for the column of that name on bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yes, you can infer that NKOs are large and massive - but also made up of what is most likely loose rubble piles that will breakup on entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network has decided to release an annual census report on their findings. Full-sized image: bit.ly/ATNCensus16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they have corrected the issue, will better handle submissions from the multiple observatories & should see a small boost in discovery rates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has found several duplicate or triplicate entires in its sky survey database, which lowered their overall findings for the past 2 months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RRC-473(C) is another Mun-grazer that will be zipping through these next few days, but not sticking around afterwards unfortunately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN also says TRO-528(B) is their first long-period comet discovery, it'll reach perikelion on 2/3 then not return for another 36.4 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VRQ-556(B) entered our SOI yesterday and will be traveling at a blazing 9.24 km/s when it slings past at just 0.06 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has posted its Dec update & will be switching over to weekly reports starting next week, thx to all who voted! - bit.ly/ATN-DB_12-16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Over the vacation break Kerbin completed its first revolution around Kerbol since the start of the KSA. Here's a look at major milestones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SWH-537(D) will sling past our south pole at 2.26km/s when it passes as close as 0.07 Munar Distance on its way through the system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all these close shaves may be scary, but the ones that don't come close are actually the ones most likely to swing back around & hit us!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new observations for IRK-685(E) that entered our SOI today show a relatively close shave from a relatively large space rock at 0.15 MD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will have more details on that plot in our Ops Summary later today. 3+ yrs out of predicting Meeny's orbit things start to get fuzzy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers believe Meeny will eventually come smashing into Kerbin's atmosphere in 2030 after a total of 20 encounters with Mun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers will be working to plot Meeny's multiple future Mun encounters to see where it will ultimately end up: impact or ejection?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/-Meeny is now available & bit.ly/KerbinSystem shows its new orbit after the last Mun encounter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just entering our SOI now, OTF-349(D) will swing past at no closer than 0.55 Munar Distance as it passes through the Kerbin system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
actually discovered last wknd, we were just a bit preoccupied to report it, RRC-473(C) will really rip thru next month, skimming Mun also
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/-Meeny is about to exit Mun's SOI, then we'll have to wait a few days before we can see it at nite again for new obt data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
can't sleep? Head over to the Flight Tracker to watch bit.ly/-Meeny swing by Mun. Will update with pre-calculated trajectory data!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
analysis of 1st Mk2.1 launch & more deets on upcoming 2nd & 3rd +more in weekly ops summary. Have a great weekend! bit.ly/OpsSummary12-5…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne will be on KNN tonight @ 7pm local time with some other science correspondents to discuss the recent asteroid events
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the whole area is being scoured for debris - fragments of this asteroid could tell us so much about the early Kerbol system. Exciting!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists just recently made it to bit.ly/ImpactSite & found a crater 1.65m wide and 2.3m deep. Maybe a Class C or D rock?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OVD-128 may not have hit us, but apparently something else did, as there was a spike picked up by seismographs the wknd we were flooded out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can also see Meeny's orbit overlaid atop the Kerbin Big Surface Map - bit.ly/KerbinAstObts +more if u open the Layers in upper-right
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check out bit.ly/-Meeny yet? It's a great Flight Tracker capabilities preview ahead of orbital flights. Let us know if you have Qs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a photo of the event as the asteroid burned its way through the sky. Near full Mun just to the left there so overall exposure is dim
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OVD-128(A) event went as expected earlier, so all the Doomsday kerbs can go back inside now until the next "apocalypse" comes along, TYVM
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists are ready for OVD-128(A) to impact our atmosphere (only) early tomorrow ~06:00 UTC. We'll report on this at start of ops hours
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as you can see it's already set for another Mun encounter in a few days. Thankfully not yet getting kicked out of Kerbin SOI or into Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Our moonlet has been dubbed Meeny by the Kerbin Astronomical Society and we have added it to our Flight Tracker - bit.ly/-Meeny
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
We have the full report on the "perfect storm" that hit us over the prev wknd - bit.ly/StormPR Hope it's a long time 'til next time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
poll results for ATN reports dispatch rate was close, monthly won. BUT enough votes came in for weekly ATN has decided to start that in 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a team of scientists is already deployed by the ATN to be under the atmospheric interface point to see what can be seen from the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this Class-A asteroid is not expected to make it to the ground as it is not metallic. Will burn up, possible break up in the process as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN confirms SOI entry and coordinates for bit.ly/OVD-128AtmoEnt…, where it will strike our atmosphere 70km ASL at 3.267km/s on 12/9
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in the meantime they'll get a small boost in discovery rates by being able to book more supercomputer time to process their data backlog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great news to hear the ATN got their funding increase and are building a new ground-based observatory for dedicated asteroid hunting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
closer to the end of this wk we expect to have enough data from ATN to add the new moonlet to our Flight Tracker w/ dynamic orbit display!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as the Kerbin Astronomical Society debates names for the new "moonlet", as they call it, more observations being taken to lock down orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
awesome news: Astronomers say they have spotted NHM-375(C) almost exactly where they expected it to be! We have a (veryteenytiny) new moon!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
massive asteroid HSJ-227(E) is thankfully only straying as close as 1.56 Munar Distance as it lumbers through the system these next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
should the ATN reports be published weekly or continue to be released monthly? Your opinion matters! Let us know in this poll
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network has published bit.ly/ATN-DB_11-16, updating all data collected since October. Asteroid count is at 93
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if NHM-375(C) has failed to be captured by Kerbin after passing by Mun, it will have by now exited the system. Will know for sure next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports JNC-724(C), which visited us earlier this month, will swing back through in 2031, thankfully it will be over 2x further away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NHM-375(C) is out of Mun's SOI and may be a new moon of Kerbin? We won't know until we can see it again in early Dec, it's currently sunward
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
according to calculations, NHM-375(C) should now have entered Mun's SOI. This pass may slow the asteroid enough to be captured by Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the icy body is currently where the rest of the pink KBO orbits are (near perikelion) large & very reflective which allowed it to be spotted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports they've just found the farthest-known orbiting body in the Kerbol system by far: Kupier Belt Object OHL-677(E) @ 4,544,369,057km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'll know at the beginning of December, if the asteroid swings around to Kerbin's dark side. Previous plot based on weeks old data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NHM-375(C) should've just entered the system, will be slowed by Mun's gravity as it passes thru its SOI - it could end up being a 3rd moon!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FQZ-120(C) will skim through the edge of our system these next few days, passing only 3.59 Munar Distance at its closest before exiting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
.@Deltaflyer_19 findings are from a large historical data set, not just current observations. These numerous early results won't last long
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JNC-724(C) will pass at a relatively distant 1.78 Munar Distance over the next few days. Tumble on, lonely space rock. Trouble us not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LRH-693(B) is the closest known miss by an asteroid yet, just 0.04MD! Unfortunately it will be passing over the sunward side of Kerbin at Pe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports NHM-375(C), discovered this week, could possibly be captured into orbit around Kerbin later this month after passing by Mun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yet another visitor, asteroid QCC-138(C) is passing through our system, coming a relatively close 0.22 Munar Distance along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
would you believe Eve has just now completed an orbit around Kerbol since the start of the KSA? Let's take a moment to look back...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all asteroids leaving the Kerbin system will be observed for future orbits to ensure they aren't coming back around on a collision course
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN reports that LAN-541(C) nor HFT-261(C) will pose a future threat to Kerbin on future orbits around Kerbol after their pass thru our sys
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been showing more & more 'roids passing through the system. Scary thing is there's prob a lot more passing thru right now we don't see
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more and more asteroid visitors coming through. RQD-720(C) will pass closest at 1.5 Munar Distance before heading back out of the kerbin sys
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CGE-397(C) entered our system a few hrs ago, will be heading down and out this week after passing 0.43 Munar Distance from us along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN is still leaning more towards an instrument calibration issue, will do repeated observations of the suspicious space rocks next few wks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
originally shrugged off as bad data, the ATN is starting to see more anomalous asteroid spectra that has them reevaluating the previous data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this will be hard to independently verify, but doesn't really come as a surprise - ATN expects Jool's deep grav well to hold many "moonlets"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN says a group of astronomers in Ockr, Kravass & Umbarg studying the Jool system w/interferometry have discovered an asteroid in orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we caught up to YBW-276(D) - motion of Kerbin relative to sun is to the left on image - will fall up around us & head back out this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both LAN-541(C) and HFT-261(C) will be observed this week to see if there is any danger of them returning on their next pass by our SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial observations of LAN-541(C) after it left Mun's SOI this morning are pleasingly accurate to predicted plots posted yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
late yesterday LAN-541(C) entered our SOI, will pass us tomorrow at 0.44MD & then skim through Mun's SOI on the way out of the system. Cool!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
relatively slow week, but such is the pace of progress at times. Here's our ops summary. Have a great weekend! bit.ly/OpsSummary11-7…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
again, the asteroid will *pass through* the system, no danger posed to Kerbin. At its closest, it will cruise by at only 2.46 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are excited to work together to track HFT-261(C) as it becomes the first known asteroid to pass through our system this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN says based on data gathered so far there may have been up to 3 dozen events over the past 200yrs of sm-med asteroid impact/atmo entries
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
discovered at the end of last week, LRH-693(B) will be giving us a real close shave later this month, passing by at just 475km, 0.04 MD!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
closing out this week with several updates, and the full test video of the Mk1-B booster from earlier today as well bit.ly/OpsSummary10-3…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN leader Edlu Kerman is very proud of the work done & NKOs discovered so far - especially OVD-128(A). Has asked gov't for more funding
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier this morning the ATN released their first report on findings made in the month of Oct, check it out here: bit.ly/ATN-DB_10-16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Weekly Ops Summary is posted, w/ some new info on the Progeny Mk2 launch anomaly & a review of KerBalloon ops + more bit.ly/OpsSummary10-2…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
current predictions show the small Class-A 'roid entering the atmo over the S. hemisphere on 12/9/16. New obsv when it enters our SOI 12/7
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN confirms we have an asteroid inbound, with observational data to share as well. We've reposted their release: bit.ly/ATN-PR1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no further word from the ATN & some kerbs in populace still upset. We agree tho they shouldn't issue new release until they have more info
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still lots of chatter and minor panic over the asteroid announcement this morning. We hope the ATN have learned their lesson...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no, none of our staff will take questions on the *potential* incoming asteroid. We await the next ATN press release as should everyone else!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aaaaand the tabloids are already printing doomsday headlines. That didn't take long. Well, they are just entertainment circulars right?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the ATN will be observing OVD-128 closely over this week to determine more about the asteroid and its potential to impact our planet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has released a press statement that OVD-128, a "small & most likely non-hazardous asteroid" has been detected heading towards Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN still plans to release monthly reports, starting at the end of October, that include the full database of asteroids discovered to date
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network has found some new asteroids in the huge pile of data it's collected so far. Here are their orbits
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
(that last tweet is to the minute that Moho completed its 1st orbit) Later today we will also reach inferior conjunction with Moho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's time for a little perspective - here's a look at major milestones that have occurred in just a single Kerbol year on Moho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's worth mentioning the Asteroid Tracking Network probably won't actually discover anything for a few wks while they build up the data set
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Asteroid Tracking Network is beginning operations next month! Details: bit.ly/ATN-PR they are also looking for a logo. Anyone?
