HR: 1340h
AN: P23A-0173    [Abstracts]
TI: A new scale of science observations from the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment for the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter
AU: * Okubo, C H
EM: chriso@lpl.arizona.edu
AF: Lunar and Planetary Laboratory University of Arizona, 1542 East University Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85721-0063 United States
AU: McEwen, A S
EM: mcewen@pirl.lpl.arizona.edu
AF: Lunar and Planetary Laboratory University of Arizona, 1542 East University Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85721-0063 United States
AB: An important objective of the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) is the involvement of the scientific community in identifying key areas on Mars for collecting detailed imagery and topography. HiRISE data represent a significant improvement in detail and in context over what is presently available for Mars (see accompanying abstract by McEwen et al., 2005, Fall AGU). Therefore the capabilities of HiRISE need to be appreciated in the framework of currently studied Mars data sets in order to formulate target suggestions and attendant research approaches that maximize the scientific return from the upcoming HiRISE data. HiRISE will have a ground-sampling dimension (i.e. pixel size) of 30 cm during the primary science phase, beginning in November 2006. To make the most of this capability, research approaches for using HiRISE data must be calibrated to this finer scale of observation. HiRISE data are best suited for detailed studies of key outcrops, rather than regional surveys. Analyses of high-resolution imagery of Earth and Mars yield constructive insight into the capabilities and limitations of HiRISE data. Useful insight into the resolution potential of HiRISE is gained through processing imagery collected by the Panoramic Cameras (Pancams) on board the Mars Exploration Rovers. HiRISE-like image resolution is synthesized by super-sampling map projected Pancam data to ground-sampling dimensions between 1 cm to 100 cm. Stepping through this range of image dimensions reveals the scales and details of features that can be expected to be resolved from HiRISE data and places these observations in the context of existing high-resolution orbital imagery (e.g. MOC). Meter-scale boulders, dunes, bedrock layers and impact craters can be resolved at the 30 cm ground-sampling dimension. Greater confidence in feature identification is achieved for objects that have a high albedo contrast against background and adjacent structures. The color and stereo-topography capabilities of HiRISE, along with coordinated observations with other MRO instruments, will greatly aid in feature characterization. Similar analyses of Earth-based imagery provide a helpful context for appreciating the resolution potential of HiRISE and the necessity of designing appropriately scaled research approaches to make the most of these data and targeting opportunities.
UR: http://marsoweb.nas.nasa.gov/HiRISE/
DE: 5464 Remote sensing
DE: 5470 Surface materials and properties
DE: 5494 Instruments and techniques
DE: 6225 Mars
SC: Planetary Sciences [P]
MN: Fall Meeting 2005