Ticha, J.; Tichy, M.; Kiriakov, M.; Kocer, M.
Klet Observatory, Zatkovo nabrezi 4, CZ-370 01 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
Abstract.
In the recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in the interest for NEOs
due to both discoveries of ground based telescopes/teams and satellite missions.
In the light of these achievements the need for continuous follow-up astrometry in
order to secure an orbit determination of the discovered bodies has risen. The Klet
Observatory Near Earth and other Unusual Objects Observation Team and
Telescope - project KLENOT - started in 2002. It is dedicated to confirmation, follow-up and
recovery of NEOs. For this task 1.06-m KLENOT telescope equipped with high efficiency CCD is used.
Since it was set in service in March 2002, a significant number of results have been obtained.
For instance 10,000 positions were determined, more than 400 confirmations were made
together with 17 recoveries and 104 measured Virtual Impactors. An important part of
NEO discoveries is the discovery of comets. Therefore inseparable component of NEO
follow-up consists in the detection of possible cometary features of newly discovered
bodies and confirmation of Near Earth Comets (NEC). The next decade surveys will
be determined by several aspects. At the first place, Pan-STARRS opens the question
whether "classical" confirmation and early follow-up of newly discovered NEO candidates
will be necessary by others. It is further discussed the need for possible changes
in existing system of follow-up process. Consequently, the most important challenge
for follow-up will become the NEOs which are in urgent need of astrometric positions determination
over longer arc including Virtual Impactors, radar and mission targets. Finally, the observing
strategies and obtained results of the KLENOT Project will be presented as well
as future plans will be discussed.