Intensity dataset acquired through laser scanning of lunar and Martian soil simulants

Abstract

The future construction effort on the Moon and Mars is increasingly discussed by the scientific community. In authors’ opinion quick, precise and remote measuring technique will be essential for successful development of lunar and Martian construction projects. One of such techniques is terrestrial laser scanning (TLS). The dataset consists of results obtained using two different, commercially available, laser scanners. The measurements were conducted on Earth using lunar and Martian soil simulants. As a reference (Earth soil simulant) a standardized sand used for cement tests was utilized. Scans were performed from different distances. The acquired point clouds can be used for thorough analysis of a laser beam dispersion and absorption. The comparison with other results is enabled. One should also keep in mind that some of the characteristics of Earth, the Moon and Mars which will influence TLS technique and measurements (e.g. local atmosphere or lack of it, temperatures, radiation, light, distances and colours).

Keywords

• Lunar soil simulant
• LSS
• Martian soil simulant
• MSS
• Terrestrial laser scanner
• TLS