On Exploration and Usage of Near-Earth-Missing Objects

Recent discoveries with Spacewatch telescope and optical orbital measurements show that there is enhanced population of small Near-Earth Objects with size smaller than 50 m defined for this paper as Near-Earth-Missing Asteroids (NEMA). Analysis of their orbits results in their perihelia distribution concentration near 1 AU, low eccentricities, and low velocities relative to the Earth. It is discussed here opportunities to use them (1) to obtain basic data on NEO and their origin, (2) to work out the technologies of NEO threat interdiction and components of future Space Defense System, (3) to study possibility to use them for space industrial technologies development, (4) to develop and implement various types of scientific and industrial space station, (5) to test some technologies of NEO orbit changing for Space Defense of the Earth and future space industry. NEMAs provides favorable conditions for implementation of this program. Small ΔV allows to use flexible space vehicles civilian and retired form military programs. Groundbased optical and radars systems could be efficiently upgraded and developed to provide needed observational support. Military and civilian space support systems could be developed to provide space navigation and control of spacecraft exploration of NEMA. Some preliminary components for the proposed program were analyzed and developed in Space Patrol project proposed by Lavochkin SPA. The results of this program would be of great value also for missions to long-distant asteroids and comets.