2 research outputs found
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
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Overcoming the Challenges Associated with Image-Based Mapping of Small Bodies in Preparation for the OSIRIS-REx Mission to (101955) Bennu
The OSIRISâREx Asteroid Sample Return Mission is the third mission in National Aeronautics and Space Administration (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 OSIRISâREx team is the selection of a prime sampleâsite 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 missionâcritical decision, the surface of Bennu is mapped using the OSIRISâREx 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 OSIRISâREx team for imageâbased mapping of irregular small bodies. We emphasize the importance of using 3âD shape models and the ability to work in bodyâfixed rectangular coordinates when dealing with planetary surfaces that cannot be uniquely addressed by bodyâfixed latitude and longitude.Open access journalThis item from the UA Faculty Publications collection is made available by the University of Arizona with support from the University of Arizona Libraries. If you have questions, please contact us at [email protected]