Target selection for Near-Earth Asteroids in-orbit sample collection missions.

This work presents a mission concept for in-orbit particle collection for sampling and exploration missions towards Near-Earth asteroids. Ejecta is generated via a small kinetic impactor and two possible collection strategies are investigated: collecting the particle along the anti-solar direction, exploiting the dynamical features of the L 2 Lagrangian point or collecting them while the spacecraft orbits the asteroid and before they re-impact onto the asteroid surface. Combining the dynamics of the particles in the Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem perturbed by Solar Radiation Pressure with models for the ejecta generation, we identify possible target asteroids as a function of their physical properties, by evaluating the potential for particle collection. • Novel mission concept for in-orbit sample collection at asteroids. • Identification and analysis of two possible collection strategies. • Ranking of most suitable targets among Near-Earth Asteroids. • Preliminary mission risk assessment from particle impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]