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At least 217 records · Page 12

Temperate zone sporadic-E maps /f/0/E/s/ greater than 7 MHz/

Three maps are presented of f(0) sporadic-E greater than 7 MHz for temperate zones. During map preparation it was assumed that: (1) the geographical area would be between plus and minus 60 deg geomagnetic latitude, excluding the equatorial zone, (2) the maps would be for f(0) sporadic-E greater than 7 MHz, (3) sunspot cycle variation would be ignored, (4) one map would represent the peak sporadic-E period with a discontinuity at the geographic equator, (5) one map would represent non-peak periods with a discontinuity at the geographic equator, (6) one map would represent all twelve months with no equatorial discontinuity, and (7) previously determined coefficients for median and upper decile f(0) sporadic-E would be extrapolated to 7 MHz.

Smith, E. K.↗

A review of earth-based radar mapping of the moon

Lunar radar mappings carried out in the late 1960s and 1970s have provided several valuable insights into lunar surface processes. These radar mappings used the delay-Doppler technique and needed the narrow antenna beams now available with large radio telescopes. Two-element radar interferometers have provided resolution of the delay-Doppler ambiguity at meter wavelengths and provided topographic information at centimeter wavelengths. These techniques have provided high resolution lunar radar maps at 3.8-cm, 70-cm, and 7.5-m wavelengths, a set of wavelengths which span the window available for earth-based radar mapping of the moon. These radar maps have been used along with other earth-based and Apollo orbital measurements to define surface units. The radar maps and these other data can describe physical properties such as small-scale blockiness and surface chemistry.

Thompson, T. W.↗

The intercrater plains of Mercury and the Moon: Their nature, origin and role in terrestrial planet evolution. Geologic mapping of Mercury and the Moon

The geologic framework of the intercrater plains on Mercury and the Moon as determined through geologic mapping is presented. The strategies used in such mapping are discussed first. Then, because the degree of crater degradation is applied to both mapping and crater statistics, the correlation of degradation classification of lunar and Mercurian craters is thoroughly addressed. Different imaging systems can potentially affect this classification, and are therefore also discussed. The techniques used in mapping Mercury are discussed in Section 2, followed by presentation of the Geologic Map of Mercury in Section 3. Material units, structures, and relevant albedo and color data are discussed therein. Preliminary conclusions regarding plains' origins are given there. The last section presents the mapping analyses of the lunar intercrater plains, including tentative conclusions of their origin.

Leake, M. A.↗

The Galilean Satellite Geological Mapping Program, 1983

The Galilean Satellite Geological Mapping Program was established to illuminate detailed geologic relations on the four large satellites of Jupiter. The program involves about 40 investigators from various universities, reseach institutes, and government offices in the United Sttes, England, Germany, and Italy. A total of 24 researchers have been assigned to map 10 quadrangles on Ganymede, 15 to map 6 quadrangles on Io, and 3 to map 2 quadrangles on Europa. All maps are at a scale of 1:5 million except for three of the Io maps, where high-resolution pictures permitted compilation of selected areas at larger scales.

Lucchitta, B. K.↗

Accuracy of geologic maps produced from Landsat data

Remote sensing techniques are now being applied to space-acquired data for use in preparing geologic maps, at least at the reconnaissance level, when maps produced from Landsat multispectral scanner data are compared with those made by conventional ground/aerial techniques, accuracies of the Landsat maps fall in the 40-60 percent range relative to their conventional counterparts. A study of map accuracy achieved with Landsat-4 Thematic Mapper (TM) data indicates a 10-15 percent improvement in this range. Results from TM scenes for Death Valley, California and the Waterpocket Fold, Utah are evaluated in this paper. While accuracy values should improve even more when corrections for topographic effects are made, there appears to be an upper limit to accuracy (not yet determined), owing to a fundamental difference between geologic maps (which show stratigraphic unit distribution below the regolith) and Landsat-derived rock units maps (which identify rock and regolith types at the surface). However, preliminary results from the Utah study indicate a marked improvement and accuracy to better than 80 percent when high spatial resolution TM-equivalent data from an aircraft mission are used.

Short, N. M.↗

Progress in compilation of the 1:2,000,000-scale topographic map

The application of special photogrammetric techniques has enabled the systematic mapping of Mars' topography at a scale of 1:2,000,000, using high-altitude Viking Orbiter pictures. In fiscal 86, compilation was completed of the 24 subquadrangles that make up the quadrangles MC-12, MC-13, MC-14, MC-15, MC-20, and MC-21. This work completes compilation of the 60 topographic maps covering the equatorial belt (lat. + or - 30 deg). The remaining 80 subquadrangles of Mars are planned to be completed within 3 years (27, 27 and 26 subquadrangles, in fiscal 87, 88, and 89, respectively). Elevations on all topographic maps are relative to the Mars topographic datum. The maps have a contour interval of 1 km and a precision of + or - 1 km. The equatorial-belt maps are Mercator projections having true scale at lat. + or - 27.476 deg. These maps provide more precise information than do those previously available and they will help in understanding the geologic processes that have shaped the Martian surface.

Wu, Sherman S. C.↗

Spatial resolution requirements for urban land cover mapping from space

Very low resolution (VLR) satellite data (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer, DMSP Operational Linescan System), low resolution (LR) data (Landsat MSS), medium resolution (MR) data (Landsat TM), and high resolution (HR) satellite data (Spot HRV, Large Format Camera) were evaluated and compared for interpretability at differing spatial resolutions. VLR data (500 m - 1.0 km) is useful for Level 1 (urban/rural distinction) mapping at 1:1,000,000 scale. Feature tone/color is utilized to distinguish generalized urban land cover using LR data (80 m) for 1:250,000 scale mapping. Advancing to MR data (30 m) and 1:100,000 scale mapping, confidence in land cover mapping is greatly increased, owing to the element of texture/pattern which is now evident in the imagery. Shape and shadow contribute to detailed Level II/III urban land use mapping possible if the interpreter can use HR (10-15 m) satellite data; mapping scales can be 1:25,000 - 1:50,000.

Todd, William J.↗

Cognitive perspectives on map displays for helicopter flight

Currently accessible technologies are providing entirely new display concepts for enhancing helicopter navigation. Yet the effectiveness of such displays depends on the extent to which they are configured according to principles from research on human performance. Computer generated map displays in the present study were configured according to previous research on maps, navigational problem solving, and spatial cognition in large scale environments. Interest centered on the representation of different spatial relationships that would best support helicopter navigational problem solving. One map display emphasized the global relationships between objects in the environment. The other map showed the pilot's relationship to objects as he traveled through the environment. Twenty skilled pilots used the maps to complete several navigational tasks that occurred within a realistic simulation program tailored for helicopter navigation. Findings indicate that the type of task and mode of flight (low level or Nap of the Earth (NOE)) are important determinants of map display effectiveness.

Harwood, Kelly↗

Mappings and accuracy for Chebyshev pseudo-spectral approximations

The effect of mappings on the approximation, by Chebyshev collocation, of functions which exhibit localized regions of rapid variation is studied. A general strategy is introduced whereby mappings are adaptively constructed which map specified classes of rapidly varying functions into low order polynomials which can be accurately approximated by Chebyshev polynomial expansions. A particular family of mappings constructed in this way is tested on a variety of rapidly varying functions similar to those occurring in approximations. It is shown that the mapped function can be approximated much more accurately by Chebyshev polynomial approximations than in physical space or where mappings constructed from other strategies are employed.

Bayliss, Alvin↗

Thermal and albedo mapping of the north and south polar regions of Mars

The first maps are presented of the north and south polar regions of Mars. The thermal properties of the midlatitude regions from -60 deg to +60 deg latitude were mapped in previous studies. The presented maps complete the mapping of entire planet. The maps for the north and south polar regions were derived from Viking Infrared Thermal Mapper (IRTM) observations. Best fit thermal inertias were determined by comparing the available IRTM 20 micron channel brightness within a given region to surface temperatures computed by a diurnal and seasonal thermal model. The model assumes no atmospheric contributions to the surface heat balance. The resulting maps of apparent thermal inertia and average IRTM measured solar channel lambert albedo for the north and south polar regions from the poles to +/- 60 deg latitude.

Paige, D. A.↗

Preliminary geologic mapping of Arsia Mons, Mars

Geologic mapping of the Tharsis Montes at a scale of 1:500,000 was recently initiated as part of the Mars Geologic Mapping Program of NASA. Detailed mapping of the three large shield volcanoes and their surroundings will help to clarify the sequence of events which led to the formation of these features, as well as provide a basis for comparing the complex histories of the three related yet distinctive volcanic centers. Preliminary mapping of Arsia Mons at a scale of 1:2 M was carried out in preparation for detailed mapping. A map is presented along with a discussion of its contents.

Zimbelman, James R.↗

Venus mapping

Semicontrolled image mosaics of Venus, based on Magellan data, are being compiled at 1:50,000,000, 1:10,000,000, 1:5,000,000, and 1:1,000,000 scales to support the Magellan Radar Investigator (RADIG) team. The mosaics are semicontrolled in the sense that data gaps were not filled and significant cosmetic inconsistencies exist. Contours are based on preliminary radar altimetry data that is subjected to revision and improvement. Final maps to support geologic mapping and other scientific investigations, to be compiled as the dataset becomes complete, will be sponsored by the Planetary Geology and Geophysics Program and/or the Venus Data Analysis Program. All maps, both semicontrolled and final, will be published as I-maps by the United States Geological Survey. All of the mapping is based on existing knowledge of the spacecraft orbit; photogrammetric triangulation, a traditional basis for geodetic control on planets where framing cameras were used, is not feasible with the radar images of Venus, although an eventual shift of coordinate system to a revised spin-axis location is anticipated. This is expected to be small enough that it will affect only large-scale maps.

Batson, R. M.↗

Completion of compilation of the 1:2,000,000-scale topographic map series of Mars

Using special photogrammetric techniques, Mars' topography is being systematically mapped at a scale of 1:2,000,000 from high-altitude Viking Orbiter images. Of the 140 maps in the series, 120 have previously been compiled on the AS-11AM analytical stereoplotters. In fiscal year 1991, the remaining 20 maps will be compiled (most of these are between +/- 30 degrees latitude and the poles). Elevations on the maps are related to the Mars topographic datum. The Mars planetwide control net is used for the control of compilation. The maps have a contour interval of 1 km and a vertical precision of +/- 1 km; thus, they are more detailed than previous maps.

Wu, Sherman S. C.↗

Integration of visible-through microwave-range multispectral image data sets for geologic mapping

Multispectral remote sensing data sets collected during the Geologic Remote Sensing Field Experiment (GRSFE) conducted during 1989 in the southwestern U.S. were used to produce thematic image maps showing details of the surface geology. LANDSAT TM (Thematic Mapper) images were used to map the distribution of clays, carbonates, and iron oxides. AVIRIS (Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer) data were used to identify and map calcite, dolomite, sericite, hematite, and geothite, including mixtures. TIMS (Thermal Infrared Multispectral Scanner) data were used to map the distribution of igneous rock phases and carbonates based on their silica contents. AIRSAR (Airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar) data were used to map surface textures related to the scale of surface roughness. The AIRSAR also allowed identification of previously unmapped fault segments and structural control of lithology and minerology. Because all of the above data sets were geographically referenced, combination of different data types and direct comparison of the results with conventional field and laboratory data sets allowed improved geologic mapping of the test site.

Kruse, Fred A.↗

Mappings and accuracy for Chebyshev pseudo-spectral approximations

The effect of mappings on the approximation, by Chebyshev collocation, of functions which exhibit localized regions of rapid variation is studied. A general strategy is introduced whereby mappings are adaptively constructed which map specified classes of rapidly varying functions into low order polynomials which can be accurately approximated by Chebyshev polynomial expansions. A particular family of mappings constructed in this way is tested on a variety of rapidly varying functions similar to those occurring in approximations. It is shown that the mapped function can be approximated much more accurately by Chebyshev polynomial approximations than in physical space or where mappings constructed from other strategies are employed.

Bayliss, Alvin↗

Indexes of maps of the planets and satellites, 1992

More than 1,600 maps of the surfaces of planets and satellites of the solar system have been produced by the U.S. geological survey and by the defense mapping agency. This collection of maps is a unique research that has been derived from maps and data returned by a series of remarkably successful space missions. These indexes have been compiled to provide a comprehensive listing of all published maps. Many maps are out of print but copies reside in many libraries and regional planetary imaging facilities. These indexes are a valuable resource for studies of the planets and satellites, and are an important starting point for the acquisition of cartographic data.

Inge, J. L.↗

Expert system-based mineral mapping in northern Death Valley, California/Nevada, using the Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS)

Integrated analysis of imaging spectrometer data and field spectral measurements were used in conjunction with conventional geologic field mapping to characterize bedrock and surficial geology at the northern end of Death Valley, California and Nevada. A knowledge-based expert system was used to automatically produce image maps showing the principal surface mineralogy from Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS) data. Linear spectral unmixing of the AVIRIS data allowed further determination of relative mineral, abundances and identification of mineral assemblages and mixtures. The imaging spectrometer data show the spatial distribution of spectrally distinct minerals occurring both as primary rockforming minerals and as alteration and weathering products. Field spectral measurements were used to verify the mineral maps and field mapping was used to extend the remote sensing results. Geographically referenced image maps produced from these data form new base maps from which to develop improved understanding of the processes of deposition and erosion affecting the present land surface.

Kruse, F. A.↗

Geologic mapping of Northern Atla Regio on Venus: Preliminary data

The Northern part of Atla Regio within the frame of C1-formate Magellan photo map 15N197 was mapped geologically at scale 1:8,000,000. This is a part of Russia's contribution into C1 geologic mapping efforts. The map is reproduced here being reduced about twice. The map shows that the Northern Atla area is predominantly a volcanic plain with numerous volcanic features: shield volcanoes, domes and hills with various morphology, corona-like constructions, radar bright and dark spots often with flow-like outlines. Relatively small areas of tessera occurred in the area are mainly semi-flooded with the plain material. Tesserae are considered to be the oldest terrains within the map sheet. There are many lineated terrains in the region. They are interpreted as the old, almost-buried tesserae (those with crossed lineaments) or partly buried ridge belts (those with parallel lineaments). These lineated terrains have an intermediate age between the young volcanic plains and the old tessera areas. Two prominent high volcanic shields are located within the region - Ozza Mons and Sapas Mona. The most prominent structure in Northern Atla is Ganis Chasma rift. The rift cuts volcanic plain and is considered to be under formation during approximately the same time with Ozza Mons shield. Ganis Chasma rift valley is highly fractured and bounded with fault scarps. Rift shoulder uplifts are typical for Ganis Chasma. There are few relatively young volcanic features inside the rift valley. The analysis of fracturing and rift valley geometry shows the rift originated due to 5-10 percent crustal extention followed by the crustal subsidence. The age sequence summary for the main terrain types in the region is (from older to younger ones): tesserae; lineated terrains with crossed lineaments; lineated terrains with parallel lineaments; volcanic plains; and prominent volcanic shields and Ganis Chasma rift valley. The geologic structure of Atla Regio as it appeared now with the Magellan high resolution images is very close to that of Beta Regio. Such conclusion coincide with the earlier ones based on the coarser data.

Nikishin, A. M.↗