Fig. 5: Shape outcomes resulting from impact simulations of similar-sized bodies.
From: Multiple moonlet mergers as the origin of the Dinkinesh-Selam system
a Triaxial ellipsoid aspect ratios, a/b versus b/c, from impact simulations at 2 and 2.25 vesc, with impact angles ranging from −15 degrees (retrograde) to 15 degrees (prograde). Error bars represent 1σ uncertainties arising from shape measurement errors. Triaxial ellipsoid axis ratio that best matches Dimorphos [a/b = 1.06 ± 0.03; b/c = 1.47 ± 0.04;13] is plotted in blue. b The highest-resolution DRACO image (onboard DART) to contain all of Dimorphos (dart_0401930039_14119_01_iof. fits) with markings outlining the asteroid shape (blue). Image courtesy of NASA. c Dimorphos’s shape model13. d, e Bern SPH simulation that best matches Dimorphos’s outline and shape (v = 2.25 vesc and ϕ = − 15 degrees (retrograde)).
