NEAR-EARTH OBJECT PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITIES

Coordinate ground-based observations in order to complete the survey of Near-Earth Objects (NEO), and to obtain accurate orbital elements for newly detected NEOs based on the best available data. Facilitate communication both within the observing communicty and between the community and the public with respect to any potentially hazardous objects (PHOs) which are discovered as a result of the expanded observational program and respond to public inquiries. Establish, update and maintain a catalog of NEOs together with an estimate of the quality of the orbital elements accessible to the scientific community and the public. Develop and support a strategy and plan for the scientific exploration of NEOs including their discovery, recovery, ephemerides, characterization, in-situ investigation, and resource potential. Support NASA Headquarters in coordinating with other government agencies and with foreign governments and international organizations on NEO issues.