ICER is computer software that can perform both lossless and lossy compression and decompression of gray-scaleimage data using discrete wavelet transforms. Designed for primary use in transmitting scientific image data from distant spacecraft to Earth, ICER incorporates an error-containment scheme that limits the adverse effects of loss of data and is well suited to the data packets transmitted by deep-space probes. The error-containment scheme includes utilization of the algorithm described in "Partitioning a Gridded Rectangle Into Smaller Rectangles" (NPO-30479), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 28, No. 7 (July 2004), page 56. ICER has performed well in onboard compression of thousands of images transmitted from the Mars Exploration Rovers.
This program was written by Aaron Kiely and Matthew Klimesh of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line 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 (626) 395-2322. Refer to NPO-40982.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Compressing Image Data While Limiting the Effects of Data Losses
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Overview
The document titled "Compressing Image Data While Limiting the Effects of Data Losses" (NPO-40982) is a technical support package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) that details a software solution designed for the efficient compression and decompression of greyscale images, particularly in the context of deep space missions. This software, referred to as ICER, is an update to a previous version (NTR-30480) and incorporates advanced algorithms to achieve its objectives.
ICER is notable for its ability to perform both lossy and lossless compression, accommodating greyscale images with a bit depth of up to 12 bits per pixel. This flexibility is crucial for space missions where bandwidth is limited, and the integrity of transmitted data is paramount. The software employs a progressive, wavelet-based compression technique, which allows for the gradual transmission of image data, enabling initial low-resolution images to be sent quickly, with higher resolutions added as bandwidth permits.
A key feature of ICER is its error containment scheme, which is specifically designed to mitigate the impact of data loss during transmission. This is particularly important for deep space probes, where communication can be disrupted by various factors, including cosmic radiation and signal degradation over vast distances. The error containment mechanism ensures that any data loss does not significantly affect the overall quality of the transmitted images, making it well-suited for the challenges of space communication.
The document also emphasizes the broader implications of this technology, suggesting that the advancements made in image compression for aerospace applications could have wider technological, scientific, and commercial applications. It encourages further exploration of related research and technology through resources available from NASA's Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office.
In summary, the document provides a comprehensive overview of ICER, highlighting its innovative features, practical applications in deep space missions, and potential for broader use in various fields. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the advancements in image data compression technology developed by NASA, showcasing the agency's commitment to enhancing communication capabilities in challenging environments.
