Rock Identification Toolkit Suite is a computer program that assists users in identifying and characterizing rocks shown in images returned by the Mars Explorer Rover mission. Included in the program are components for automated finding of rocks, interactive adjustments of outlines of rocks, active contouring of rocks, and automated analysis of shapes in two dimensions. The program assists users in evaluating the surface properties of rocks and soil and reports basic properties of rocks. The program requires either the Mac OS X operating system running on a G4 (or more capable) processor or a Linux operating system running on a Pentium (or more capable) processor, plus at least 128MB of random-access memory.
This program was written by Benjamin Bornstein, Andres Castano, and Robert Anderson of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (818) 393-2827. Refer to NPO-41133.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Semi-Automated Identification of Rocks in Images
(reference NPO-41133) 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) detailing a software application designed for the semi-automated identification of rocks in images, specifically to assist scientists during the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) mission. The software, referred to as the Rock Identification Toolkit, aims to enhance the evaluation of surface properties of rocks and soil on planetary bodies using in-situ imaging resources.
Key features of the software include an automated rock finding algorithm, an interactive tool for adjusting rock outlines, active rock contouring, and automated 2D shape analysis. These functionalities are intended to streamline the process of identifying and characterizing rocks, making it easier for scientists to analyze geological features on Mars and other celestial bodies.
The software is built upon previously existing code, specifically the wxWindows cross-platform GUI toolkit, and is compatible with Mac OS X G4 or greater and Linux PCs with at least 128MB of RAM. The current version of the software is in beta status, with plans for further testing on representative data sets to refine its capabilities based on user feedback.
The development of this software was funded by NASA under the project code 101959, with an estimated development cost of $50,000 and an additional $50,000 anticipated for further enhancements. The software has no known commercial applications or similar existing software, highlighting its unique contribution to the field of planetary science.
The document also outlines the contributors to the project, including key developers who played significant roles in the conception and implementation of the software. It emphasizes the importance of this tool in aiding scientists in their research and exploration efforts, particularly in the context of evaluating geological features on Mars.
Overall, the Technical Support Package serves as a comprehensive overview of the Rock Identification Toolkit, detailing its purpose, features, development background, and potential impact on planetary exploration. It underscores NASA's commitment to advancing technology that supports scientific discovery and exploration in aeronautics and space activities.
