47th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference (2016) 2151.pdf PLANETARY CARTOGRAPHY: WHAT, HOW, AND WHY BEGIN WITH WHERE. R. L. Kirk1, 1Astrogeology Science Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 USA (
[email protected]). Introduction: In this abstract I offer a brief overview of of the location and pointing of the instrument, plus software planetary cartography, intended as an introduction to a ses- (known as a sensor model) that uses this information to iden- sion in which others will present their individual, institution- tify the source of each observation on the target. Though al, and mission-derived perspectives on the subject. After uncontrolled products can be generated by taking posi- suggesting a broad and inclusive definition of cartography, I tion/pointing information at face value, the importance of list a few examples of its applications in planetary science, controlled products cannot be overstated. These are generat- briefly summarize the state of the art, and outline the most ed by a process of statistically estimating position, pointing, significant challenges for future development. and ground coordinates, which not only improves the con- What Is It?: The dictionary definition of cartography, sistency of results within and between data sets, but also “the science or art of making maps” [1] succeeds or fails on provides reliable estimates of accuracy [8]. Having multiple the breadth of one’s definition of a “map”. Printed maps and observations, especially if they include multitemporal, multi- globes, the traditional examples, are still useful but have spectral, topographic, or even in situ information, in a single mostly been supplanted by digital and increasingly more system vastly expands the range of qualitative and quantita- dynamic products.