Planetary Geologic Mapping

Geologic mapping is a key to understanding the geology of extraterrestrial bodies and is based on the same principles as mapping in terrestrial geology. However, there are some important differences, with respect to map scale and data availability. Whereas the terrestrial geologic mapper typically has access to the study area and can use data of all spatial scales, planetary geologists have to rely on remote sensing data or robotic in situ data that only cover a certain range of scales. Careful selection of mapping scale, data, and purpose are therefore essential. The advance of modern GIS techniques has recently enabled efficient mapping approaches and digital dissemination of mapping results for further usage.