(16) Psyche's Different Possible Formation Scenarios and Internal Structures From Current Constraints

One of the central questions to be addressed by the NASA Psyche mission is the composition and origin of the asteroid (16) Psyche. In preparation of the mission's planned arrival in 2029, in this work we explore how different internal structures may be expressed on (16) Psyche. We model the core size and shape that may exist at (16) Psyche given currently available constraints. We find that if Psyche has compositional layering, then tectonic features accommodating large amounts of compression from pore closure and a freezing core may be present. We also find that because of (16) Psyche's elongated shape and fast rotation, it is important to properly reference the elevations to the geoid (i.e., the accelerations a particle will feel) when interpreting possible mass wasting effects. Plain Language Summary The NASA Psyche mission is scheduled to arrive at the asteroid (16) Psyche in August 2029. In preparation for that arrival, we compare different possibilities for what the asteroid (16) Psyche may be composed of, how it would have formed, and how we could determine Psyche's history from the measurements that will be collected. If (16) Psyche has a inner metallic core and outer silicate layer, that core likely fills 15% 40% of the asteroids volume. Because the core contracts while freezing (16) Psyche would shrink over time, leading to compressional tectonic features on the surface. These features could be observed by the Psyche mission, helping determine if the asteroid (16) Psyche is layered in this way.