Spatial Spectroscopic Models for Remote Exploration

• DOI: 10.1089/ast.2017.1782
• Publication Date: 2018-07-23T09:53:25Z
• Authors: David R. Thompson; Alberto Candela; David S. Wettergreen; Eldar Noe Dobrea; Gregg A. Swayze; Roger N. Clark; Rebecca Greenberger
• Keywords: 0209 industrial biotechnology; Models, Statistical; Spectrum Analysis; 500; Mars; Robotics; 02 engineering and technology; Autonomous science-Imaging spectroscopy-Alteration mineralogy-Field geology-Cuprite-AVIRIS-NG-Robotic exploration; Space Flight; 15. Life on land; 620; Exobiology; Spacecraft; Space Simulation

Ancient hydrothermal systems are a high-priority target for future Mars sample return mission because they contain energy sources microbes and can preserve organic materials (Farmer, 2000; MEPAG Next Decade Science Analysis Group, 2008; McLennan et al.,2012; Michalski al.,2017). Characterizing these large, heterogeneous with remote explorer is difficult due to communications bandwidth latency; such will require significant advances in spacecraft autonomy. autonomy uses intelligent sensor platforms that analyze data real-time, setting measurement downlink priorities provide the best information toward investigation goals. Such automation must relate abstract science hypotheses measurable quantities available robot. This study captures relationships by formalizing traditional "science traceability matrices" into probabilistic models. permits experimental design techniques optimize measurements maximize value objectives, directing explorers respond appropriately new data. models rich language commanding informed robotic decision making physically grounded terms. We apply quantify content of different rover traverses providing profiling spectroscopy Cuprite Hills, Nevada. also develop two methods representing spatial correlations using human-defined maps sensing Model unit classifications broadly consistent prior site's alteration mineralogy, indicating model has successfully represented critical mineralogical at Cuprite. Key Words: Autonomous science—Imaging spectroscopy—Alteration mineralogy—Field geology—Cuprite—AVIRIS-NG—Robotic exploration. Astrobiology 18, 934–954.