Near-infrared polarimetric study of near-Earth object 252P/LINEAR: An implication of scattered light from the evolved dust particles

Comets, one of the least-altered leftovers from the nascent solar system, have probably preserved the primitive structure inside, whereas their surfaces become modified from the initial states after repetitive orbital revolutions around the Sun. Resurfacing makes the surface drier and more consolidated than the bulk nuclei, creating inert refractory dust layer ("dust mantle"). Near-infrared (NIR; 1.25-2.25 m) polarimetry is theoretically expected to maximize contrast of the porosity between inner fresh and evolved dust particles, by harboring more dust constituents in the single wavelength than the optical; thus, intensifies electromagnetic interaction in dust aggregates. Despite such an advantage, only a few studies have been made in this approach mainly due to the limited accessibility of available facilities. Herein, we present our new multi-band NIR polarimetric study of near-Earth object 252P/LINEAR over 12 days near perihelion, together with the results of optical (0.48-0.80m) imaging observations and backward dynamical simulation of the comet. Based on the results, we will characterize the dust properties of the comet and discuss the possible environmental (temperature and UV radiation) effects that could produce the observed phenomena.