Main Belt Asteroid Science in the Decade 2023-2032: Fundamental Science Questions and Recommendations on behalf of the Small Bodies Assessment Group

Abstract

Solicited by the Small Bodies Assessment Group, we recommend a balanced program of telescopic observation (ground-based, airborne, and space-based), laboratory studies, theoretical research and missions to Main Belt Asteroids utilizing the full spectral range from ultraviolet to far-infrared to investigate these outstanding fundamental questions in the next decade.