Constraining Particle Stiffness in Asteroid Regolith from Early-Time High-Speed Penetrator Dynamics under Local Granular Variability

Abstract: Mechanical properties of rubble-pile asteroid regolith remain poorly constrained because contact responses depend on both material properties and local particle configuration. This study examines whether early-time high-speed penetrator dynamics can constrain particle stiffness, represented by the particle Young's modulus E, within a controlled discrete-element model. A bidirectionally coupled EDEM-Adams discrete-element-multibody model is used to screen six parameters: Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, coefficient of restitution, static friction coefficient, rolling friction coefficient, and adhesion strength. Five Young's-modulus levels are then tested at the same 17 spatial locations in one settled granular bed, giving 85 simulations with location-matched comparisons across modulus levels. Within the 75-90 m s^-1 speed range, varying Young's modulus yields the clearest and most systematic differences in probe deceleration, whereas the other parameters have weaker effects over the tested ranges. Validation by withholding all modulus cases at one location in turn indicates that the early response is more informative for distinguishing broad modulus ranges than adjacent modulus levels. Mesoscale analysis links the response differences to concentrated interface load sharing and spatially extended three-dimensional high-capacity contact paths as Young's modulus increases. The results provide a numerical basis for narrowing the particle Young's-modulus range from high-speed penetration responses despite local granular variability. Quantitative application to real asteroid regolith requires further experimental validation.