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Automated Rock Identification for Future Mars Exploration MissionsA key task for human or robotic explorers on the surface of Mars is choosing which particular rock or mineral samples should be selected for more intensive study. The usual challenges of such a task are compounded by the lack of sensory input available to a suited astronaut or the limited downlink bandwidth available to a rover. Additional challenges facing a human mission include limited surface time and the similarities in appearance of important minerals (e.g. carbonates, silicates, salts). Yet the choice of which sample to collect is critical. To address this challenge we are developing science analysis algorithms to interface with a Geologist's Field Assistant (GFA) device that will allow robotic or human remote explorers to better sense and explore their surroundings during limited surface excursions. We aim for our algorithms to interpret spectral and imaging data obtained by various sensors. The algorithms, for example, will identify key minerals, rocks, and sediments from mid-IR, Raman, and visible/near-IR spectra as well as from high resolution and microscopic images to help interpret data and to provide high-level advice to the remote explorer. A top-level system will consider multiple inputs from raw sensor data output by imagers and spectrometers (visible/near-IR, mid-IR, and Raman) as well as human opinion to identify rock and mineral samples.
Document ID
20030111070
Acquisition Source
Headquarters
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Gulick, V. C.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Morris, R. L.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Gazis, P.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Bishop, J. L.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Alena, R.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Hart, S. D.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Horton, A.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2003
Publication Information
Publication: Lunar and Planetary Science XXXIV
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.
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