Remote sensing of geomorphodiversity linked to biodiversity — part III: traits, processes and remote sensing characteristics

Remote sensing (RS) enables a cost-effective, extensive, continuous and standardized monitoring of traits and trait variations of geomorphology and its processes, from the local to the continental scale. To implement and better understand RS techniques and the spectral indicators derived from them in the monitoring of geomorphology, this paper presents a new perspective for the definition and recording of five characteristics of geomorphodiversity with RS, namely: geomorphic genesis diversity, geomorphic trait diversity, geomorphic structural diversity, geomorphic taxonomic diversity, and geomorphic functional diversity. In this respect, geomorphic trait diversity is the cornerstone and is essential for recording the other four characteristics using RS technologies. All five characteristics are discussed in detail in this paper and reinforced with numerous examples from various RS technologies. Methods for classifying the five characteristics of geomorphodiversity using RS, as well as the constraints of monitoring the diversity of geomorphology using RS, are discussed. RS-aided techniques that can be used for monitoring geomorphodiversity in regimes with changing land-use intensity are presented. Further, new approaches of geomorphic traits that enable the monitoring of geomorphodiversity through the valorisation of RS data from multiple missions are discussed as well as the ecosystem integrity approach. Likewise, the approach of monitoring the five characteristics of geomorphodiversity recording with RS is discussed, as are existing approaches for recording spectral geomorhic traits/ trait variation approach and indicators, along with approaches for assessing geomorphodiversity. It is shown that there is no comparable approach with which to define and record the five characteristics of geomorphodiversity using only RS data in the literature. Finally, the importance of the digitization process and the use of data science for research in the field of geomorphology in the 21st century is elucidated and discussed

COBE's search for structure in the Big Bang

The launch of Cosmic Background Explorer (COBE) and the definition of Earth Observing System (EOS) are two of the major events at NASA-Goddard. The three experiments contained in COBE (Differential Microwave Radiometer (DMR), Far Infrared Absolute Spectrophotometer (FIRAS), and Diffuse Infrared Background Experiment (DIRBE)) are very important in measuring the big bang. DMR measures the isotropy of the cosmic background (direction of the radiation). FIRAS looks at the spectrum over the whole sky, searching for deviations, and DIRBE operates in the infrared part of the spectrum gathering evidence of the earliest galaxy formation. By special techniques, the radiation coming from the solar system will be distinguished from that of extragalactic origin. Unique graphics will be used to represent the temperature of the emitting material. A cosmic event will be modeled of such importance that it will affect cosmological theory for generations to come. EOS will monitor changes in the Earth's geophysics during a whole solar color cycle

NASA Tech Briefs, December 1989

Topics include: Electronic Components and Circuits. Electronic Systems, Physical Sciences, Materials, Computer Programs, Mechanics, Machinery, Fabrication Technology, Mathematics and Information Sciences, and Life Sciences

Reports of Planetary Geology and Geophysics Program, 1990

Abstracts of reports from NASA's Planetary Geology and Geophysics Program are presented. Research is documented in summary form of the work conducted. Each report reflects significant accomplishments within the area of the author's funded grant or contract

Annual Meeting of the Lunar Exploration Analysis Group : October 22-24, 2014 Laurel, Maryland

The focus for this year's meeting is the topic of lunar volatiles — which species are present, their abundance on the surface and interior, their sources and formation processes, their mobility and temporary storage on the surface, and their ultimate fate (be it loss from the lunar environment or “permanent” sequestration in surface reservoirs).Institutional Support: NASA Lunar Exploration Analysis Group, The Johns Hopkins University/Applied Physics Laboratory, Universities Space Research Association (USRA), Lunar and Planetary Institute, National Aeronautics and Space Administration ; Conveners: Samuel Lawrence, Arizona State University, Stephen Mackwell, Lunar and Planetary Institute, Clive Neal, University of Notre Dame, Jeffrey Plescia, The Johns Hopkins University/Applied Physics Laboratory.PARTIAL CONTENTS: Solar Wind Implantation into Lunar Regolith: Hydrogen Retention in a Surface with Defects / W M Farrell, D. M Hurley, and MI. Zimmerman--Lunar Surface Models / H. Fink.--The Geology oflnferno Chasm, Idaho: A Terrestrial Analog for Lunar Rilles? / W B. Gany, S. S. Hughes, S. E. Kobs Nawotniak, C. D. Neish, C. W Haberle, J L. Heldmann, D. S. S. Lim, and FINESSE Team--Spectral and Therrnophysical Properties of Lunar Swirls from the Diviner Lunar Radiometer / T D. Glotch, J L. Bandfield, P. G. Lucey, P. O. Hayne, B. T Greenhagen, J A. Arnold, R. R. Ghent, and D. A. Paige--The Benefits of Sample Return: Connecting Apollo Soils and Diviner Lunar Radiometer Remote Sensing Data / B. T. Greenhagen, K. L. Donaldson Hanna, I. R. Thomas, N. E. Bowles, C. C. Allen, C. M Pieters, and D. A. Paige--International Strategy for the Exploration of Lunar Polar Volatiles / J E. Gruener and N. H. Suzuki--Why Do We Need the Moon: Next Steps Forward for Moon Exploration / U. G. Guven--Space Mission to the Moon with a Low Cost Moon Probe Nanosatellite: University Project Feasibility Analysis and Design Concepts / U G. Guven, G. V. Velidi, and L. D. Datta--ARTEMIS Observations of the Space Environment Around the Moon and its Interaction with the Atmosphere and Surface / J S. Halekas and ARTEMIS Team