Speaker
Daniel Parrott
Description
Accurate astrometry of Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) depends on two key elements: precise timing and precise positional measurement. For most stars and main-belt asteroids, timing errors are negligible compared to position errors. But NEOs, with their rapid apparent motion, are highly sensitive to even small timing biases. An observatory that has not properly calibrated its timing source may find residuals far larger than expected, undermining orbit determination and follow-up efforts. This presentation examines the hardware, software, and calibration factors that influence timing accuracy, and offers practical strategies for evaluating and improving it.
