A Field Study of Thermal Infrared Spectral Signatures, with Implications for Studies of Mars

Details A Field Study of Thermal Infrared Spectral Signatures, with Implications for Studies of Mars A Field Study of Thermal Infrared Spectral Signatures, with Implications for Studies of Mars

Jul 2000

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2000came.work..176k&link_type=abstract

Concepts and Approaches for Mars Exploration, p. 176

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Infrared Spectroscopy, Infrared Signatures, Spectral Signatures, Spectrum Analysis, Thermal Emission, Surface Roughness Effects, Site Selection, Mars Landing Sites, Signal To Noise Ratios, Carbonates

Scientific paper

Data recorded of indurated, weathered carbonates by the airborne hyperspectral imaging spectrometer SEBASS show that some massive carbonates exhibit dramatically reduced spectral contrast for the strong carbonate bands at 6.5 and 11.25 microns. If massive carbonates are present on Mars' this type of reduced spectral contrast could explain why they have not been detected using thermal infrared data sets, including the Global Surveyor Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES). It could also cause similarly rough carbonates to be missed by the planned 2001 nine-band radiometer THEMIS. On the other hand, SEBASS data demonstrate that these deposits can be detected by spectra recorded with sufficient signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). The observed reduction in band contrast is significant, and we conclude it is caused by surface roughness effects. The nature of carbonate and other formations on Mars is uncertain, as well as the amount and kind of subsequent weathering, but a rough surface is certainly a possibility that must be taken into account. These results should be considered in planning for future instruments, and when utilizing thermal infrared spectra for landing site selection. This effect was found by drawing on expertise and unique technology most commonly used for the Department of Defense (DoD). The significance of the lessons learned illustrate the importance both of extending spectral studies to the field, and of drawing on data sets and expertise from non-traditional groups, in order to best define what is needed to detect and identify interesting materials and desirable landing sites on Mars using infrared spectroscopy.

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