Multispectral Mapping of Solar-System Objects

Multispectral mapping is an effective method for determining the spatial extent of geologic units on a planetary surface and of absorption and scattering properties in planetary atmospheres. Groundbased telescopic studies of the moon have been carried out for more than 60 years, but spacecraft missions have seldom included multispectral-mapping experiments. Development in two-dimensional detector technology and image-processing techniques are stimulating activity in this field. Increased understanding of the optical properties of planetary-surface materials is making multispectral maps more meaningful.