STATUS UPDATE FOR THE USGS PLANETARY GEOLOGIC MAPPING PROGRAM

Like geologic maps of the Earth’s surface, geologic maps of extraterrestrial surfaces are two-dimensional representations of the geologic units and their relationships, and a graphical representation of the physical evolution of the target body. They are also tools used for hypothesis-driven science investigations. Maps can integrate various satellite instrument data to create thematic maps. Maps are also useful in operational planning for landed robotic and human exploration.

The USGS Astrogeology Science Center works with NASA-funded authors from the pre-proposal stage to the publication of planetary geologic maps as a part of the USGS Science Investigation Map Series. Through the Mapping, Remote-Sensing, Cartography, Technology, and Research (MRCTR, pronounced Mercator) GIS Laboratory, we provide support regarding mapping techniques and GIS methods to the broader planetary geologic mapping community regardless of the publication’s destination. We will present the status update for the previous fiscal year and detail our plans for the current fiscal year from the USGS Planetary Geologic Mapping Program. For example, we will discuss the map publication queue, planetary geologic mapping new starts and funding, website enhancements, interactive maps, and outline the current staff roles.

Geologic maps are a fundamental product for understanding the evolution of planetary surfaces and should be produced for each body where base map data are available. To that end, we as a community need to cultivate and sustain competence in geologic mapping within the planetary sciences; develop cost- and time-efficient methods for map production as the need for larger-scale mapping increases with increased human exploration; and continue to have timely, topical science-driven geologic mapping funded, published, and disseminated to the planetary science community.