Martian Surface Physical Properties to be Derived by Radar Altimeter on the Mars Observer Spacecraft
Abstract
The potential is described of a candidate Mars Observer altimeter for determining dielectric properties of Mars regolith. It is pointed out that it is straightforward to use the time between altimeter pulse trains for passive radiometry (hence dielectric properties) and roughness can be derived. Given the mission plan the whole surface can be mapped at least three times, yielding data on seasonal variability.
- Publication:
-
MECA Symposium on Mars: Evolution of its Climate and Atmosphere
- Pub Date:
- 1987
- Bibcode:
- 1987meca.symp...37G
- Keywords:
-
- Dielectric Properties;
- Mars Surface;
- Planetary Mapping;
- Regolith;
- Structural Properties (Geology);
- Mars Observer;
- Mineralogy;
- Paleoclimatology;
- Planetary Composition;
- Planetary Evolution;
- Radio Altimeters;
- Surface Roughness;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration