Overview of Scientific Objectives for Minor Planets Exploration

The definition and classification of minor planets are introduced and the main exploration methods of minor planets are presented. The status of current international minor planets exploration is summarized, including the exploration missions which have been implemented and planned to implement,their scientific objectives,scientific payloads,and the main scientific data obtained. Finally, the future development trend of minor planets exploration is discussed and the scientific objectives of China's future autonomous minor planets exploration is prospected.