Visible spectroscopic and photometric survey of L5 Trojans: investigation of dynamical families

In this paper we present results obtained in the framework of a visible spectroscopic and photometric survey of Trojan asteroids. We concentrated on bodies orbiting at the L5 Lagrangian point of Jupiter that are also members of dynamical families. Spectroscopy is a crucial tool that allows us to characterize the mineralogical composition of families and their parent bodies, gives evidence of ongoing space weathering, and confirms family membership. We have observed 18 objects belonging to the Aneas, Astyanax, Sarpedon, and Phereclos families as defined by Beauge and Roig (2001, Icarus 53, 391). In addition, we have determined the spectroscopic properties of 8 background Jupiter Trojans. The observed spectra are reddish with a dominance of D-type asteroids. As expected, the spectra of the non-family members are more heterogeneous compared to the spectra of family members, with the exception of the members of the Aneas family. We also confirm the lack of absorption features in the visible region, as already reported by other authors. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.