asteroid rotation models

Asteroid rotation models describe how asteroids spin in space, influencing their shape and behavior. These models consider factors like the asteroid's mass distribution and the forces acting on it. Different asteroids can rotate in various ways: some spin steadily, while others tumble or have irregular spins. Understanding these rotations helps scientists learn about an asteroid's history, composition, and potential impact risks to Earth. By studying light patterns from asteroids, researchers can gather data on their rotation rates, which is essential for planning future space missions and assessing hazards.