ESA Solicits Amateur Astronomer Data for Hera Mission Targets (esa.int)

• Global citizen science initiative launched by ESA for mission target selection
• High-precision data required to optimize Hera mission flyby trajectories
• Extending scientific scope of Hera beyond the Didymos binary system

"The European Space Agency is inviting amateur astronomers to contribute observational data to help select flyby targets for the Hera mission. While the primary objective is the Didymos binary asteroid system, intermediate flybys could provide significant additional scientific value. ESA requires high-precision ground-based observations to validate orbital trajectories and ensure target feasibility for the spacecraft's transit phase."