A discussion on infared astronomy - Mid-infrared spectroscopic observations of the Moon

1969 ◽  
Vol 264 (1150) ◽  
pp. 109-139 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Remote Sensing ◽  
Lunar Surface ◽  
Wavelength Region ◽  
Landing Site ◽  
Ground Truth ◽  
Molecular Vibration ◽  
The Moon ◽  
Mid Infrared ◽  
Surface Materials ◽  
Remote Sensing Techniques

Now that space probes have actually landed on the Moon, and man is soon to follow, one might suppose that the need for the development of lunar remote sensing techniques is past. Exactly the opposite is true. It must be remembered that no nation is financially able to support exploration of more than a very small percentage of the total surface area of the moon. Small areas immediately adjacent to a landing site will, of course, be explored in detail. Hopefully, there will be a few traverses made to discover the degree of lateral inhomogeneity of the surface materials. Realistically, however, we must plan on extending this ‘ground truth’ information to cover the entire lunar surface by remote means. In fact, remote sensing techniques will be employed prior to much of the detailed lunar surface exploration in order to define areas of maximum interest. The mid-infrared region of the spectrum is a wavelength region which possesses a high potential usefulness for remote sensing, because the molecular vibration spectra in this region are directly interpretable in terms of molecular composition. It is the purpose of this paper to examine this potential, review the theoretical justification for use of this wavelength region, describe laboratory studies of possible lunar surface materials, and present the data so far obtained from the moon itself.

scholarly journals The Potential for Archaeology Within and Beyond the Habitable Zones (HZ) of the Milky Way

2004 ◽  
Vol 213 ◽  
pp. 505-510
Author(s):  
John B. Campbell
Keyword(s):  
Remote Sensing ◽  
Solar System ◽  
Milky Way ◽  
Extrasolar Planets ◽  
Habitable Zone ◽  
The Moon ◽  
Habitable Zones ◽  
Remote Sensing Techniques ◽  
Main Region

As archaeology is established on Earth and we are actively exploring the Solar System and beyond, there is the potential to develop a number of forms of exo-archaeology. The archaeology of the things intelligent species do in theory could be practised anywhere, provided one can detect the evidence. Sites are being created by us elsewhere within our star's habitable zone (HZ), namely on the Moon and Mars, and at least molecular traces of human-created probes are being left beyond the HZ (Venus, Jupiter etc.). The successful detection of extrasolar planets and the possible identification of HZs round other stars raise the possibility for the development of extrasolar archaeology, at least initially by remote sensing techniques. Within the Milky Way the main region to investigate is the galactic habitable zone (GHZ), though there could be archaeological traces of technological behaviours beyond it.

scholarly journals A Study of Lunar Microwave Radiation Based on Satellite Observations

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (7) ◽  
pp. 1129 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hu Yang ◽  
Martin Burgdorf
Keyword(s):  
Remote Sensing ◽  
Microwave Radiation ◽  
Lunar Surface ◽  
Microwave Remote Sensing ◽  
Satellite Observations ◽  
Advanced Technology ◽  
Lunar Phase ◽  
Phase Lag ◽  
The Moon ◽  
Microwave Sounding

In recent years, the study of microwave radiation from the Moon’s surface has been of interest to the astronomy and remote sensing communities. Due to the stable geophysical properties of the Moon’s surface, microwave lunar radiation is highly predictable and can be accurately modeled, given sufficient observations from reliable instruments. Specifically, for microwave remote sensing study, if International System of Unit (SI) traceable observations of the Moon are available, the Moon can thus be used as an SI traceable calibration reference for microwave instruments to evaluate their calibration accuracies and assess their long-term calibration stabilities. Major challenges of using the Moon as a radiometric source standard for microwave sensors include the uncertainties in antenna pattern measurements, the reliability of measurements of brightness temperature (Tb) in the microwave spectrum of the lunar surface, and knowledge of the lunar phase lag because of penetration depths at different detection frequencies. Most microwave-sounding instruments can collect lunar radiation data from space-view observations during so-called lunar intrusion events that usually occur several days each month. Addressed in this work based on Moon observations from the Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder and the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit/Microwave Humidity Sounder are two major issues in lunar calibration: the lunar surface microwave Tb spectrum and phase lag. The scientific objective of this study is to present our most recent progress on the study of lunar microwave radiation based on satellite observations. Reported here are the lunar microwave Tb spectrum and phase lag from 23 to 183 GHz based on observations of microwave-sounding instruments onboard different satellite platforms. For current Moon microwave radiation research, this study can help toward better understanding lunar microwave radiation features over a wide spectrum range, laying a solid foundation for future lunar microwave calibration efforts.

scholarly journals THE LOST INDIAN CHANDRAYAAN 2 LANDER VIKRAM AND ROVER PRAGYAAN FOUND INTACT IN SINGLE PIECE ON THE MOON

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (12) ◽  
pp. 103-109
Author(s):  
Jag Mohan Saxena ◽  
H M Saxena ◽  
Priyanka Saxena
Keyword(s):  
Lunar Surface ◽  
Landing Site ◽  
Space Research ◽  
The Moon ◽  
Lunar Orbiter ◽  
Exact Location ◽  
Indian Space Research Organization ◽  
Single Piece ◽  
Mission Control ◽  
Lunar Lander

The Lunar Lander Vikram of the Moon Mission Chandrayaan 2 of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) lost communication with the Lunar Orbiter and the mission control nearly 2.1 kms above the lunar surface during its landing on the Moon on 7th September, 2019. The exact location and the sight of the lost lander and rover are still elusive. We present here the exact location and first images of the lander Vikram and rover Pragyaan sighted on the lunar surface. It is evident from the processed images that the lander was intact and in single piece on landing away from the scheduled site and its ramp was deployed to successfully release the rover Pragyan on to the lunar surface. This contradicts earlier reports that the lander was disintegrated into small pieces and debris which were scattered far away from the proposed landing site.

scholarly journals Rapid Land Subsidence in Tianjin, China Derived from Continuous GPS Observations (2010–2019)

2020 ◽  
Vol 382 ◽  
pp. 241-247
Author(s):  
Ruibin Zhao ◽  
Guoquan Wang ◽  
Xiao Yu ◽  
Xiaohan Sun ◽  
Yan Bao ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Remote Sensing ◽  
Land Subsidence ◽  
Ground Truth ◽  
Hebei Province ◽  
Synthetic Aperture ◽  
Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar ◽  
Remote Sensing Techniques ◽  
Continuous Gps ◽  
Gps Observations ◽  
Regional Reference

Abstract. We have delineated ten years of urban subsidence derived from continuous GPS stations operated by the Crustal Movement Observational Network of China (CMONOC) within and adjacent to the municipality of Tianjin. A method for obtaining accurate site velocities with respect to a stable regional reference frame is described. CMONOC stations in Jizhou (JIXN) and Baodi (TJBD) districts recorded minor subsidence of approximately 1 to 2 mm yr−1 during the period from 2010 to 2019. One station in Wuqing (TJWQ) district and one station in Binhai (TJBH) district recorded steady subsidence of approximately 5 and 2 cm yr−1 from 2010 to 2019, respectively. One station in Cangzhou (HECX) of Hebei Province, adjacent to Tianjin, recorded steady subsidence of approximately 2.4 cm yr−1 during 2010–2014 and more rapid subsidence of 4 cm yr−1 since 2015. TJWQ recorded the most rapid land subsidence and the most significant seasonal ground oscillations (uplift and subsidence) among these five stations. This study indicates that subsidence rates in Tianjin vary significantly in space and time. Particular attention should be paid, therefore, to extrapolate or infer a rate of subsidence for an area on the basis of a subsidence rate obtained from previous GPS observations or proximal GPS sites. The subsidence time series presented in this study provide reliable “ground truth” and constraints for calibrating or validating subsidence estimations from numerical modeling and repeated surveys using other remote sensing techniques, such as Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR).

scholarly journals The Use of Colorimeters to Support Remote Sensing Techniques on Asphalt Pavements

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (23) ◽  
pp. 3911
Author(s):  
Christodoulos Mettas ◽  
Evagoras Evagorou ◽  
Athos Agapiou ◽  
Diofantos Hadjimitsis
Keyword(s):  
Remote Sensing ◽  
Spectral Response ◽  
Ground Truth ◽  
Asphalt Pavements ◽  
Electromagnetic Spectrum ◽  
Ground Truth Data ◽  
Mahalanobis Distances ◽  
Spectral Bands ◽  
Remote Sensing Techniques

Characterization of asphalt pavements, based on ground spectroradiometers, has been studied in the past to determine their spectral response concerning the physical, chemical, and condition properties of the pavement. This paper suggests an alternative technique for characterizing ageing of asphalt pavements using a colorimeter. Colorimeters are considered as affordable equipment in laboratories in contrast to other scientific instruments and turn remote sensing ground techniques more accessible to industry. Therefore, the study proposes a new methodology indicating how colorimeters can be used in combination with satellite data for the age characterization of asphalt pavements. Spectroradiometer data are compared in a two-way methodology to colorimeter data. The final steps of the methodology used in the study show very similar results for both equipment after a comparison of separability indices (Euclidean and Mahalanobis distances). It is a fact that colorimeter data can be used as ground truth data. The application was performed using an in-band analysis of WorldView 3 (WV3) spectral bands situated in the visible electromagnetic spectrum. Based on the findings of this study, we proposed the Normalized Difference Equation/filter for asphalt Pavement Age characterization Index (NDPAI).

The Rashid rover: to guide the way for the next generation lunar missions and solar system exploration

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sara Almaeeni ◽  
Sebastian Els ◽  
Hamad Almarzooqi
Keyword(s):  
United Arab Emirates ◽  
Lunar Surface ◽  
High Speed ◽  
Landing Site ◽  
Recovery Phase ◽  
Scientific Instrument ◽  
Maximum Height ◽  
Wide Field ◽  
The Moon ◽  
Lunar Missions

<p>The United Arab Emirates has announced its first space mission to the moon by 2024. The Emirates Lunar Mission (ELM) consists of a micro rover, named Rashid, has a main objective of traversing the mid-latitude landing site and obtaining high resolution images of the lunar surface. Such an objective necessitates careful designs of the architecture and the different systems involved to ensure smooth integration and proper operation.</p><p>The rover weigh around 10Kg and has 4 wheels that are designed to climb slopes of 20 degrees and rocks of maximum height of 10cm. Also, it is equipped with 2 wide field cameras that will be used for navigation and to increase the environmental awareness while the operator drives the rover remotely. Moreover, the rover is powered by the solar panels which are mounted in a certain angle to maximize the collecting of the solar energy. After the collection and battery charging, various regulated voltages are distributed to all subsystems.  </p><p>The Rashid rover is designed with two communications channels. The primary communications channel is the main channel used during the mission and allows for high speed bandwidth and low power consumption (on the rover). The secondary communications channel uses more power and is slower, but is not dependent on the lander and is therefore used as a backup as well as the lunar night recovery phase.</p><p>Despite being a small rover and its prime goal being a technology demonstrator, Rashid’s scientific instrument suite is substantial. The science instruments will provide data of the lunar surface environment allowing to investigate a vast variety of topics like geology of the Moon, lunar surface alteration mechanisms, Interaction of the soil with the solar wind and material suitability for future lunar missions. In this paper, the ELM mission, the rover subsystems as well as the science instruments are described in details.</p>

scholarly journals The Battle of Lepanto Search and Survey Mission (1971–1972) by Throckmorton, Edgerton and Yalouris: Following Their Traces Half a Century Later Using Marine Geophysics

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (16) ◽  
pp. 3292
Author(s):  
George Papatheodorou ◽  
Maria Geraga ◽  
Dimitris Christodoulou ◽  
Elias Fakiris ◽  
Margarita Iatrou ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Remote Sensing ◽  
Ground Truth ◽  
Surface Expression ◽  
Site Formation ◽  
Underwater Archaeology ◽  
Site Formation Processes ◽  
Formation Processes ◽  
Vertical Resolution ◽  
Reconnaissance Survey ◽  
Remote Sensing Techniques

A series of marine remote sensing and ground-truth surveys were carried out at NW Gulf of Patras (W. Greece). The same area was surveyed in 1971 by Throckmorton, Edgerton and Yalouris, who are among the pioneers in the application of remote sensing techniques to underwater archaeology. The researchers conducted a surface reconnaissance survey to locate the site where the Battle of Lepanto took place on 7 October 1571. Their remote sensing surveying resulted in a map of two “target” areas that showed promise as possible remnants of wrecks from that battle and proposed a ground truth survey for their identification and in the detection of two modern shipwrecks. The ground truth survey was never fulfilled. The objectives of our repeat surveys, which were completed 50 years later, were to relocate the findings of this pioneer survey with higher spatial and vertical resolution, to ground-truth the targets, fulfilling their investigation, and to interpret the newly collected data in the light of modern developments in marine geosciences. Our repeat surveys detected mound clusters and individual mounds referred to “target” areas. These mounds could be interpreted as the surface expression of mud and fluid expulsion from the underlying deformed soft sediments. The ground truth survey demonstrated that the tops of mounds represent biogenic mounds. The ROV survey did not show any indication of wreck remnants of the Battle of Lepanto within the two survey areas. The site formation processes of the two modern shipwrecks were also studied in detail. Two noticeable seafloor morphological features were detected around the wreck sites; field of small-sized pockmarks and seafloor depressions. We would like to dedicate this work to the memory of Peter Throckmorton and Harold E. Edgerton, who are among the pioneers in the formative years of underwater archaeology in Greece.

scholarly journals Photometric properties of lunar regolith revealed by the Yutu-2 rover

2020 ◽  
Vol 638 ◽  
pp. A35 ◽  
Author(s):  
Honglei Lin ◽  
Yazhou Yang ◽  
Yangting Lin ◽  
Yang Liu ◽  
Yong Wei ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Near Infrared ◽  
Surface Composition ◽  
Lunar Regolith ◽  
Remote Sensing Data ◽  
Landing Site ◽  
Ground Truth ◽  
Wavelength Dependence ◽  
Forward Scattering ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
The Moon

Context. The surface composition of the Moon has mainly determined based on the visible and near-infrared spectra achieved from orbits and/or landing sites, and the spectroscopic analysis is based on photometric properties of the topmost lunar regolith. However, the lack of a ground truth for the photometric parameters of the undisturbed lunar surface has limited accurate applications of spectral observations. Aims. Here we report the photometric properties of the small-scale (i.e., centimeter level) undisturbed lunar regolith around the Chang’E-4 landing site, determined from a series of photometric experiments conducted by the rover Yutu-2. Methods. The simplified Hapke model was used to derive the photometric properties. The micro-topographic effect on the spectral measurements was corrected for the first time in the in situ photometric investigations on the Moon, which improves the accuracy of the derived photometric parameters. Results. The single-scattering albedo w and two parameters (b, c) of the Henyey-Greenstein phase function were derived, and they show a wavelength dependence. The regolith at the Chang’E-4 landing site exhibits strong forward scattering according to the retrieved c values, and the higher asymmetry parameter indicates that the regolith here is more strongly forward scattering than the Apollo lunar soil samples. The derived photometric parameters can serve as ground truth and can be used in the radiative transfer modeling analysis of the orbital remote-sensing data.

scholarly journals A global rockfall map of the Moon powered by AI and Big Data

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Valentin Bickel ◽  
Jordan Aaron ◽  
Andrea Manconi ◽  
Simon Loew ◽  
Urs Mall
Keyword(s):  
Spatial Distribution ◽  
High Resolution ◽  
Lunar Surface ◽  
Image Data ◽  
Landing Site ◽  
Planetary Science ◽  
The Moon ◽  
Lunar Orbiter ◽  
Narrow Angle ◽  
Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter

<p>Under certain conditions, meter to house-sized boulders fall, jump, and roll from topographic highs to topographic lows, a landslide type termed rockfall. On the Moon, these features have first been observed in Lunar Orbiter photographs taken during the pre-Apollo era. Understanding the drivers of lunar rockfall can provide unique information about the seismicity and erosional state of the lunar surface, however this requires high resolution mapping of the spatial distribution and size of these features. Currently, it is believed that lunar rockfalls are driven by moonquakes, impact-induced shaking, and thermal fatigue. Since the Lunar Orbiter and Apollo programs, NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Narrow Angle Camera (NAC) returned more than 2 million high-resolution (NAC) images from the lunar surface. As the manual extraction of rockfall size and location from image data is time intensive, the vast majority of NAC images have not yet been analyzed, and the distribution and number of rockfalls on the Moon remains unknown. Demonstrating the potential of AI for planetary science applications, we deployed a Convolutional Neural Network in combination with Google Cloud’s advanced computing capabilities to scan through the entire NAC image archive. We identified 136,610 rockfalls between 85°N and 85°S and created the first global, consistent rockfall map of the Moon. This map enabled us to analyze the spatial distribution and density of rockfalls across lunar terranes and geomorphic regions, as well as across the near- and farside, and the northern and southern hemisphere. The derived global rockfall map might also allow for the identification and localization of recent seismic activity on or underneath the surface of the Moon and could inform landing site selection for future geophysical surface payloads of Artemis, CLPS, or other missions. The used CNN will soon be available as a tool on NASA JPL’s Moon Trek platform that is part of NASA’s Solar System Treks (trek.nasa.gov/moon/).</p>

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