Early dynamical evolution of the Solar System: constraints from asteroid and KBO dynamics

Abstract

The orbital distribution of asteroids and Kuiper-belt objects (KBOs) provides important information for the dynamical evolution of the solar system. Recent advances in modelling the dynamics of asteroids and KBOs have increased our understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the main features observed in the small-body belts. There are, however, several pieces left to complete the puzzle of the dynamical history of the solar system. In particular, we now understand that the solar system probably looked very different during the first $500-1000$ Myr than today, mainly because of two processes that took place during those times: (i) planetary formation and (ii) planetary migration. I will discuss observational and dynamical constraints that any model, attempting to reconstruct this early period, should obey. I will then present a new model for planetary migration, which successfully reproduces the observed orbital distribution of the trans-Neptunian objects. I will then discuss the implications of this model on the early evolution of the inner solar system, in particular the distribution of main-belt asteroids and the bombardment of the terrestrial planets by small bodies.To search for other articles by the author(s) go to: http://adsabs.harvard.edu/abstract_service.html