Asteroid research is the study of asteroids, small rocky objects that orbit the sun in the inner solar system. Scientists study asteroids to better understand their composition, size, shape, and movement in order to better predict potential impacts with Earth and to potentially exploit their resources in the future. Research in this area involves a variety of methods, including telescopic observations, spacecraft missions, and laboratory analysis of asteroid samples. Additionally, asteroid research plays a critical role in understanding the early solar system and the formation of the planets.