Overcoming the Challenges Associated with Image-based Mapping of Small Bodies in Preparation for the OSIRIS-REx Mission to (101955) Bennu

The OSIRIS-REx Asteroid Sample Return Mission is the third mission in NASA's New Frontiers Program and is the first U.S. mission to return samples from an asteroid to Earth. The most important decision ahead of the OSIRIS-REx team is the selection of a prime sample-site on the surface of asteroid (101955) Bennu. Mission success hinges on identifying a site that is safe and has regolith that can readily be ingested by the spacecraft's sampling mechanism. To inform this mission-critical decision, the surface of Bennu is mapped using the OSIRIS-REx Camera Suite and the images are used to develop several foundational data products. Acquiring the necessary inputs to these data products requires observational strategies that are defined specifically to overcome the challenges associated with mapping a small irregular body. We present these strategies in the context of assessing candidate sample-sites at Bennu according to a framework of decisions regarding the relative safety, sampleability, and scientific value across the asteroid's surface. To create data products that aid these assessments, we describe the best practices developed by the OSIRIS-REx team for image-based mapping of irregular small bodies. We emphasize the importance of using 3D shape models and the ability to work in body-fixed rectangular coordinates when dealing with planetary surfaces that cannot be uniquely addressed by body-fixed latitude and longitude.Comment: 31 pages, 10 figures, 2 table

A new protocol for texture mapping process and 2d representation of rupestrian architecture

The development of the survey techniques for architecture and archaeology requires a general review in the methods used for the representation of numerical data. The possibilities offered by data processing allow to find new paths for studying issues connected to the drawing discipline. The research project aimed at experimenting different approaches for the representation of the rupestrian architecture and the texture mapping process. The nature of the rupestrian architecture does not allow a traditional representation of sections and projections of edges and outlines. The paper presents a method, the Equidistant Multiple Sections (EMS), inspired by cartography and based on the use of isohipses generated from different geometric plane. A specific paragraph is dedicated to the texture mapping process for unstructured surface models. One of the main difficulty in the image projection consists in the recognition of homologous points between image and point cloud, above all in the areas with most deformations. With the aid of the “virtual scan” tool a different procedure was developed for improving the correspondences of the image. The result show a sensible improvement of the entire process above all for the architectural vaults. A detailed study concerned the unfolding of the straight line surfaces; the barrel vault of the analyzed chapel has been unfolded for observing the paintings in the real shapes out of the morphological context

Image informatics strategies for deciphering neuronal network connectivity

Brain function relies on an intricate network of highly dynamic neuronal connections that rewires dramatically under the impulse of various external cues and pathological conditions. Among the neuronal structures that show morphologi- cal plasticity are neurites, synapses, dendritic spines and even nuclei. This structural remodelling is directly connected with functional changes such as intercellular com- munication and the associated calcium-bursting behaviour. In vitro cultured neu- ronal networks are valuable models for studying these morpho-functional changes. Owing to the automation and standardisation of both image acquisition and image analysis, it has become possible to extract statistically relevant readout from such networks. Here, we focus on the current state-of-the-art in image informatics that enables quantitative microscopic interrogation of neuronal networks. We describe the major correlates of neuronal connectivity and present workflows for analysing them. Finally, we provide an outlook on the challenges that remain to be addressed, and discuss how imaging algorithms can be extended beyond in vitro imaging studies

Seafloor characterization using airborne hyperspectral co-registration procedures independent from attitude and positioning sensors

The advance of remote-sensing technology and data-storage capabilities has progressed in the last decade to commercial multi-sensor data collection. There is a constant need to characterize, quantify and monitor the coastal areas for habitat research and coastal management. In this paper, we present work on seafloor characterization that uses hyperspectral imagery (HSI). The HSI data allows the operator to extend seafloor characterization from multibeam backscatter towards land and thus creates a seamless ocean-to-land characterization of the littoral zone

Using Remote Sensing Technologies in Relocating Lubrak Village and Visualizing Flood Damages

As weather patterns change across the world, there are communities impacted by climate change that are left unnoticed. In the Himalayan mountain range, communities have suffered, experiencing an increase in flash flooding and droughts. For Lubrak Village in Lower Mustang, the community faces the threats of flash flooding. Over the last ten years, the amount of flash flooding has increased, occurring more than once each monsoon season. After every flood, concrete-like sediment is left behind, hardening across the riverbed and increasing its elevation. As the riverbed elevation increases, this sediment encroaches on Lu-brak Village’s agricultural fields and ancient mud buildings, making them more vulnerable to flood damages. In the last monsoon season alone, the village has seen the flood swallowing several fields, as well as damaging two homes. In order to keep the community safe, the community themselves have been in discussion of relocating the village entirely to a new and safer location. However, relocating the village is a challenging task, where complex nuances exist in both aspects of civil engineering and communal opinions. To investigate this issue further, we look to conversing with the community to understand their needs and perspective. From them, we will be able to develop a plan that amplifies the voices of Lubrak Village. Additionally, we use the power of remote sensing and 3D digital modeling to visualize the village and the new proposed location sites. These models will then be used by the architecture planning and development team to better understand the terrain and layout of the village. From these models, the team will be able to make more informed decisions on how to plan and develop the new village. Finally, we briefly explore other pertinent issues in redirecting the flow of the flood, predicting the new riverbed elevation after the next monsoon season, and further visualizing flood damages through detailed modeling

Imaging Informatics and the Human Brain Project: the Role of Structure, Review

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Case Study: Analyzing the benefits of using 3D printing on the Mexican Museum renovation project in San Francisco, California

The use of three-dimensional (3D) printing is not yet prevalent throughout the construction industry. Although there have been some uses, each has been small and relatively experimental, however, a current renovation project to the Mexican Museum in downtown San Francisco utilized 3D printing to aid in design coordination. The decision came after the General Contractor, Webcor Builders, noticed a possible constraint in pouring a section of the foundation; a pair of nine-foot vertical concrete walls surrounding the elevator shaft. The walls posed a serious threat to the schedule and budget of the project, raising concerns with shoring, waterproofing, and constructability. This paper will look at how the use of 3D printing on the project aided in the design process; what issues gave way to the use of 3D printing; what benefits the physical 3D model added; and what some possible expansions on this technology could be. The decision to utilize a 3D printed model is not standard procedure when faced with design constraints. However, the implementation of the 3D model proved to be beneficial on multiple fronts and opened the door to more innovation surrounding 3D printing within the construction industry