LPL COLLOQUIUM: Advances in Planetary Thermophysical Analysis

Abstract: Remote temperature measurements of planetary surfaces can be used to constrain several physical characteristics of the regolith layer, including porosity, strength, roughness, structural layering, and particle size distribution, with important implications for surface evolution and robotic exploration. I will describe two examples of how thermal emission data were used to predict the physical properties of planetary regolith. The first example is quite old, yet was largely successful (come to the talk to find out!). The second is modern — the remote thermophysical analysis of asteroid Bennu that led to somewhat inaccurate predictions of the nature of the regolith layer. The paradigm of how we interpret thermal inertia and thermal emission data has begun to shift since the subversion of expectations at Bennu. I will briefly cover some of the biggest issues with the traditional approach to thermal inertia modeling and interpretation, discuss some current projects that are underway to fix these issues, and will speculate on where the field is headed.

Zoom guidelines and information As a reminder, please keep yourself muted during the meeting unless you are speaking. If you have an important clarification question, please raise the “blue hand” in the Participant list before asking or you can ask a question in Chat window. For non-urgent questions, please wait until the Q/A time following the presentation.

For those viewing the colloquium in room 308, refreshments will be served in the Kuiper atrium at 3:30 p.m. ***Refreshments are not permitted in the seminar room.***