Utilizing Thermal Infrared Spectra of Mars for Mission Planning

Physics

Scientific paper

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Infrared Spectroscopy, Spectrum Analysis, Remote Sensing, Mars Exploration, Mission Planning, Signal To Noise Ratios, Surface Roughness Effects, Field Of View, Spectral Resolution, Infrared Spectra, Spectral Signatures

Scientific paper

Reflectance and emission spectroscopy remain the most capable method for mineral identification from orbit. However, to best utilize spectra returned from Mars for mission planning, the current level of understanding of the spectral signature of weathered and rough materials should be considered. Materials measured in the laboratory tend to have band strengths that are stronger than those measured in the field. This difference results mainly from surface roughness, weathering effects, and the presence of a mixture of different materials in the field of view (mixed pixel effect). Thus it is critical to extend spectral measurements from the laboratory into the field in order to understand the spectral behavior of real-world materials. This is best done by utilizing a combination of airborne, field, and laboratory spectra of terrestrial materials, and then applying the lessons learned to spectra recorded of Mars. The ability of any spectral instrument to detect and identify minerals depends on a combination of (1) the mineral's band strength; (2) band width; (3) the instrument's spectral resolution; (4) signal-to-noise ratio (SNR); and (5) atmospheric interference. These points are not always considered in quotes of the detection limits for a given instrument and material. Here we discuss these effects, and explain their relevance for assessing the order in which spectral instruments should be flown to best implement a phased approach to "follow the water," and for landing site selection and sample return.

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