A novel information fusion methodology for intelligent terrain analysis

This paper presents a novel information fusion methodology for intelligent terrain analysis. In our application, we define information as terrain characteristics derived from sensor data extracted from on-board spacecraft sensors. The fuzzy-logic construct allows one to represent the terrain characteristics using an easily understandable, linguistic approach. Once derived, these fuzzy terrain characteristics are blended together using a fuzzy rule base to produce a coherent representation of terrain safety. The fused information is then used to autonomously select a safe landing site for spacecraft touchdown. The fuzzy terrain analysis and fusion methodology is explained in detail. Computer simulation results are provided to show the viability of the approach