The science case for a modern, multi-wavelength, polarization-sensitive LIDAR in orbit around Mars

2014/05/30 by Adrian J. Brown, Timothy I. Michaels, Shane Byrne +5 · 1 citation
Physics and Astronomy · #astro-ph.EP

paper · pdf · doi:10.1016/j.jqsrt.2014.10.021

25 pages, 6 figures, 4 tables

arxiv created 2014/05/30 · arxiv updated 2015/12/09

Abstract

We present the scientific case to build a multiple-wavelength, active, near-infrared (NIR) instrument to measure the reflected intensity and polarization characteristics of backscattered radiation from planetary surfaces and atmospheres. We focus on the ability of such an instrument to enhance, perhaps revolutionize, our understanding of climate, volatiles and astrobiological potential of modern-day Mars.

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