162-4 Integration of Thermophysical Data into Lunar Mapping Program (LMAP)-Alpha Results

Session: Planetary Geologic Mapping Across the Solar System

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Abstract:

Thermophysical data is especially critical at the lunar poles, where extreme polar illuminations provide compelling scientific exploration potential and challenging operational environments. These data include temperature and inferred properties from temperature changes, which are critical for evaluating the properties of a surface for scientific and tactical exploration.

During Lunar Mapping Program (LMAP) Alpha efforts, we began integrating thermophysical data and derived products into a broader mapping effort at our target location within the lunar south pole region (see Skinner et al., Luna & Huff et al., this meeting). As expected, we encountered typical challenges with these data, including the need to reconcile differences in resolution between optical and thermal remote sensing data, which remain varied in currently available data sets. We also encountered new challenges, including the need to represent meaningful differences in temperature variation within two nested map areas at different scales. 

To address these challenges, we used a focused team approach that integrated multiple stakeholders with varying backgrounds and produced a workflow that can integrate thermophysical data into the creation of future lunar mapping products. This approach allowed us to leverage experience from other planetary bodies, like Mars, to identify limits, and push creativity needed to derive useful data layers for the overall LMAP effort. We suggest some lessons learned for future LMAP efforts, as well as report on preliminary results on inferred thermal properties within our map region. 

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-11144

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