Don Yeomans
Papers
2
Total Citations
49
H-Index
2
About
Don Yeomans is a pioneering figure in planetary science, best known for his transformative work on near-Earth objects (NEOs). His research focuses on asteroid detection, characterization, and the feasibility of robotic asteroid retrieval missions. Yeomans made landmark contributions by leading studies that demonstrated the technological viability of capturing and returning entire near-Earth asteroids to the International Space Station for scientific analysis and resource evaluation. His 2011 paper, "Asteroid Return Mission Feasibility Study" (39 citations), and the companion study "Feasibility of Capturing and Returning Small Near-Earth Asteroids" (10 citations), laid critical groundwork for future asteroid sample-return and in-situ resource utilization concepts. As a long-time manager of NASA's Near-Earth Object Program Office at JPL, Yeomans also provided essential leadership in tracking potentially hazardous asteroids and comets, significantly advancing planetary defense. His work has directly influenced major NASA missions, including OSIRIS-REx and the proposed Asteroid Redirect Mission, cementing his legacy as a visionary in asteroid science and exploration.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Asteroid Return Mission Feasibility Study39 citations · 2011
- 2Feasibility of Capturing and Returning Small Near-Earth Asteroids10 citations · 2011