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Earth Proximity Objects Dataset
Data Science and Analytics
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About
This dataset provides details on Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) observed by NASA between 1900 and 2021. NEOs are asteroids or comets with trajectories that bring them within a close proximity to Earth's orbit, specifically within 0.3 astronomical units (approximately 45 million kilometres). These objects represent potential threats to our planet, prompting global coordination efforts in planetary defence through entities such as the International Asteroid Warning Network (IAWN) and the Space Mission Planning Advisory Group (SMPAG). Beyond their potential hazard, comets and asteroids are scientifically significant as they are considered relatively unchanged remnant debris from the solar system's formation process some 4.6 billion years ago. They offer vital clues to the chemical mixture from which the inner and outer planets originated, providing insights into the primordial composition of our solar system.
Columns
- Object: The name given to the Near-Earth Object. This column contains unique identifiers for each celestial body.
- Close-Approach (CA) Date: The specific date and time when the NEO was observed to make its closest approach to Earth.
- CA Distance Nominal (LD | au): The calculated distance from Earth to the centre of the NEO during its closest approach, expressed in both Lunar Distances (LD) and Astronomical Units (au).
- CA Distance Minimum (LD | au): The minimum possible distance from Earth to the NEO, also provided in Lunar Distances (LD) and Astronomical Units (au).
- V relative (km/s): The velocity of the NEO relative to Earth, measured in kilometres per second. This column shows a distribution of values, with a mean of 10.5 km/s.
- V infinity (km/s): The velocity of the NEO relative to a massless Earth, measured in kilometres per second. This also shows a range of values, with a mean of 10.4 km/s.
- H (mag): The absolute magnitude of the NEO. For asteroids, a larger H value implies a smaller diameter, while for comets, this value is undefined. The mean absolute magnitude is 24.7.
- Diameter: The estimated diameter of the NEO, often provided in a range of metres.
Distribution
The dataset is provided as a CSV file, named
near earth objects.csv, and has a file size of 3.32 MB. It contains 8 distinct columns. Most columns have approximately 31.2 thousand valid entries, representing 100% data validity for those fields. The number of rows/records is approximately 31.2 thousand.Usage
This dataset is ideal for applications in planetary defence, where it can support the identification and tracking of potentially hazardous objects. It is also highly valuable for scientific research focusing on the origins and evolution of the solar system, providing data on the chemical constituents of primordial matter. Furthermore, it can be used for educational purposes in astronomy and earth sciences to illustrate the dynamics of celestial mechanics and the risks posed by NEOs.
Coverage
The dataset covers Near-Earth Objects observed by NASA over a time range from 1900 to 2021. The geographic scope pertains to objects passing in the vicinity of Earth's orbit. There are no specific notes on demographic scope as this dataset deals with astronomical observations.
License
CC0: Public Domain
Who Can Use It
- Astronomers and planetary scientists: For research into solar system formation, celestial mechanics, and NEO characteristics.
- Government agencies and defence organisations: Involved in planetary defence strategies and hazard assessment.
- Educators and students: For teaching and learning about astronomy, space science, and geological history.
- Data analysts and modellers: To conduct exploratory data analysis, build predictive models for NEO trajectories, or visualise close-approach events.
Dataset Name Suggestions
- NASA's Near-Earth Objects Catalogue
- NEO Close-Approach Data (1900-2021)
- Planetary Defence Asteroid & Comet Registry
- Solar System Remnants: NEO Observations
- Earth Proximity Objects Dataset
Attributes
Original Data Source: Earth Proximity Objects Dataset
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