Validation of Remote Sensing Data from Planetary Probes: the Lunar Prospector Case

Abstract

Planetary probes play an important role in acquiring data from Solar System bodies by using remote sensing techniques. The accuracy of this information is, however, still to be proved, as the Lunar Prospector data analysis showed. In the case of building lunar mineralogical maps and showing evidence of water, Lunar Prospector databases showed not to be accurate enough to generate reliable results. Both casesproves of inaccuracies are shown in this paper. Regarding the gamma- ray spectrometry data, it was possible to correct the database, based on evidences that some elements present enough accuracy, together with lithological knowledge and data from the lunar samples that enabled the mapping of the major lunar minerals. These maps agree with the current knowledge of the formation of terrains on the Moon. Regarding the neutron spectrometer, the epithermal neutron data collected is used to prove the evidence of water in the polar craters. However, comparing the signal with the theoretical models many discrepancies appear that lead to think that Lunar Prospector data is not sufficiently accurate to prove or disprove the presence of water.