PLANETARY GEOLOGIC MAPS: THE UNIFYING PLATFORM TO PROMOTE DISCOVERY, INNOVATION, AND APPLICATION (Invited Presentation)

The discipline of planetary (non-terrestrial) geologic mapping has undergone a renaissance in the last 20 years in two fundamental ways. First, the fleet of spacecraft currently exploring the Solar System offer a staggeringly varied view of bodies beyond Earth. Second, the rapid development of geographic information system (GIS) software allows interlayering, manipulation, and analysis of these varied data sets in ways not previously realized. As a result, we are formulating a more comprehensive understanding of the geologic processes that acted upon these bodies than ever before. Amid this renaissance, it is critically important to recognize the difference between terrestrial and non-terrestrial geologic maps, including how they are created and how they should be used. Terrestrial geologic maps rely on direct observations to determine unit lithology and orientation, which can be extrapolated to three-dimensions. Planetary geologic maps rely almost exclusively on indirect observation, leaving lithology and formational process thoughtfully inferred. This difference is important, as non-terrestrial geologic maps cannot state with certainty what an actual unit is composed of or how it was emplaced, something effectively assumed for terrestrial counterparts. Well-drafted planetary geologic maps depend upon a unique combination of scientific, cartographic, and technical characteristics to strategically blend and convey observation and inference. Yet, these products must go further than simply expanding the existing body of knowledge. Planetary geologic mapping efforts must address applied research applications of resultant product and employ broadly recognizable formats. These will establish common context for basic research across multiple disciplines as well as for solving practical problems. Planetary geologic maps, properly constructed, promote discovery, prompt innovation, and encourage application. Ultimately, these products are the fundamental means by which we can corroborate, correlate, and compare observations of planetary bodies and our most unifying mechanism for promoting efficient exploration. This ensures that decision-makers have the tools necessary to identify valuable natural resources, avoid risks from natural hazards, and make wise use of national assets.