The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Mission and Our Changing View of the Moon
Abstract
The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter spacecraft (LRO) is approaching a decade in lunar orbit and in that time it has been a witness and leader of a remarkable era of lunar science where a paradigm shift is taking place from the view of the Moon as a static planet to one with active processes on multiple scales. Originally conceived as a one-year exploration mission to pave the way for a return to the lunar surface, both robotically and by humans, after a year in orbit LRO transitioned to a science mission and has operated in a duel role of science and exploration ever since. The seven LRO instruments use a variety remote sensing techniques to obtain a unique set of observations. These measurements provide information regarding the physical properties of the lunar surface, the lunar environment, and the location of volatiles and other resources. Scientific interpretation of these observations improves our understanding of the geologic history of the Moon, its current state, and what its history can tell us about the evolution of the solar system. Scientific results from LRO observations overturned existing paradigms and deepened our appreciation of the complex nature of our nearest neighbor. With ample fuel to remain in orbit (for up to eight more years) and a healthy suite of instruments and spacecraft systems, LRO is ready to continue uncovering and addressing key planetary science questions. In addition, LRO will support key exploration goals of NASA as well as assist in the planning and targeting of future missions to the Moon by governmental space agencies and commercial endeavors. In this presentation we will present recent results and describe the LRO created resources available to the community for planning lunar missions.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2018
- Bibcode:
- 2018AGUFM.P23C3447K
- Keywords:
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- 0933 Remote sensing;
- EXPLORATION GEOPHYSICSDE: 5460 Physical properties of materials;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: SOLID SURFACE PLANETSDE: 5464 Remote sensing;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: SOLID SURFACE PLANETSDE: 5470 Surface materials and properties;
- PLANETARY SCIENCES: SOLID SURFACE PLANETS