Researchers at JPL and Arizona State University conducted a comparative study of three candidate algorithms for estimating components of the Martian atmosphere, using raw (uncalibrated) data collected by the Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS). THEMIS is an instrument onboard the Mars Odyssey spacecraft that acquires image data in five visible and nine infrared (IR) wavelength bands. The algorithms under study used data collected from eight of the nine IR bands to estimate the dust and water ice content of the atmosphere. Such an algorithm could be used in onboard data processing to trigger other algorithms that search for features of scientific interest and to reduce the volume of data transmitted to Earth.
The algorithms studied were based on regression models. In the study, the optical depths estimated by these algorithms were compared with optical depths estimated in ground-based processing using fully calibrated data from both THEMIS and the Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES). TES is an instrument onboard the Mars Global Surveyor spacecraft that also observes the planet at infrared wavelengths, but at a lower spatial resolution than THEMIS does. Of the algorithms studied, the one that performed best was based on a Gaussian Support Vector Machine regression model. The test results indicated that this algorithm, operating on the raw data, had error rates that were within the uncertainty associated with the estimates obtained by the ground-based analysis of the fully calibrated data. This level of fidelity demonstrates that these algorithms are sufficiently accurate for use in an onboard setting.
This work was done by Kiri Wagstaff, Rebecca Castaño, and Steve Chien of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Joshua Bandfield of the Arizona State University. For more information, download the Technical Support Package (free white paper) at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Information Sciences category.
The software used in this innovation is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-43590.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Estimating Dust and Water Ice Content of the Martian Atmosphere From Themis Data
(reference NPO-43590) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) focused on estimating the dust and water ice content of the Martian atmosphere using data from the Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS). Identified by the NPO-43590 reference number, this package is part of NASA Tech Briefs, which disseminates information on aerospace-related developments with potential technological, scientific, or commercial applications.
The primary innovation discussed in the document is the methodology for detecting dust storms and water ice clouds on Mars, which is crucial for understanding the planet's climate and atmospheric conditions. The research is based on the work of Kiri L. Wagstaff and colleagues, presented in a paper titled “Dust Storms and Water Ice Clouds: Feature Detection For Use Onboard Themis,” published in March 2006 during the 37th Annual Lunar and Planetary Science Conference.
The document emphasizes the importance of accurately estimating the composition of the Martian atmosphere, particularly the presence of dust and ice, as these elements play a significant role in Martian weather patterns and surface processes. The ability to detect and analyze these features from THEMIS data can enhance our understanding of Martian meteorology and contribute to future exploration missions.
Additionally, the Technical Support Package outlines the framework under which this research was conducted, highlighting the collaboration between various scientists and the support provided by NASA’s Commercial Technology Program. It also includes contact information for further inquiries, directing interested parties to the Innovative Technology Assets Management team at JPL.
The document serves as a resource for researchers and technologists interested in Martian atmospheric studies and the application of remote sensing technologies. It underscores NASA's commitment to advancing knowledge about Mars and its environment, which is essential for future exploration and potential human missions to the planet.
In summary, this Technical Support Package provides a concise overview of innovative techniques for analyzing Martian atmospheric dust and ice, showcasing the collaborative efforts of scientists and the broader implications for planetary science and exploration.
