Identify An Asteroid in Interactive Atlas

[theskyhound]

Hi Jack,

You need the full database rather than just the daily update. The one you downloaded only includes just a selection of the minor planets, so it could easily have left some out. So be sure to download the full MPCORB.

You don't need a target list at all for this or the Database Power Search. Just use the Atlas. Open it to the Atlas, set the date/time, and position it in the correct field. Zoom in/out such that the full desired area is covered. Make sure Minor Planets are enabled in the View Controls, and also turn on their labels. Under Mag Limits at the top of the chart, click Set and use the slider to set the magnitude limit for minor planets fully to the right.

The chart will now show every minor planet, assuming your date is close to today and this isn't a historical search. Check to see how many minor planets are being displayed in the status area on the bottom right of the charts. It should be a very large number.

With the labels turned on, any minor planets that appear on the chart will be obvious.