Mapping Resources Potential of the Lunar Surface for Human Exploration

Details Mapping Resources Potential of the Lunar Surface for Human Exploration Mapping Resources Potential of the Lunar Surface for Human Exploration

Jul 2005

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2005hst..prop10719g&link_type=abstract

HST Proposal ID #10719

Other

Hst Proposal Id #10719 Solar System

Scientific paper

We propose to use the ACS/HRC to delineate UV through visible color units at three test sites on the lunar surface for the purpose of identifying localized areas enriched in potential resources, including TiO2. This pathfinding experiment will make use of HST's unique high resolution imaging capabilities in the near UV. We will observe the Apollo 15 and 17 sites to establish an empirical calibration against sampled lunar soils. We will then observe the Aristarchus Plateau in search of regions enriched in TiO2 at levels that could permit in situ resources utilization activities that support sustained human exploration. Precision mapping of TiO2 abundance and other chemical proxies by virtue of HST's high angular resolution in near UV wavelengths will extend lower resolution Visible-NIR results obtained from orbit by Clementine, and set the stage for future orbital surveys later in the decade. Understanding whether there are lunar near-side sites with adequate resource potential to target human "sorties" and related robotic precursor missions represents an important decision point in NASA's implementation of the President's Vision for Space Exploration. The proposed HST ACS/HRC test data directly support near-term engineering trades associated with the optimal location for the first human return missions to the Moon. No past, current, or planned future lunar orbiting spacecraft will have the ability to investigate the near UV aspects of the lunar spectrum at such scales { 50m}, so the results of the proposed HST observations are unique and relevant to NASA's mission.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Mapping Resources Potential of the Lunar Surface for Human Exploration does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Mapping Resources Potential of the Lunar Surface for Human Exploration, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Mapping Resources Potential of the Lunar Surface for Human Exploration will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1250538