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Mercury research in CEPS centers around the study of tectonic features,
and how they relate to Mercury's geologic past. Understanding these features
requires precise topographic information. New topographic data for Mercury
is being generated at CEPS using digital stereo techniques, yielding digital
terrain models (DEMs). A new planetary mission called MESSENGER will provide global coverage in image and
other types of data. Tom Watters at the Center for Earth and Planetary
Studies is a participant in the Geology Group of the MESSENGER Science
Team and is involved in the mission's outreach efforts.
More about Mercury research at CEPS
List of Mercury Research Projects
A complete picture of the Venusian surface became available in the
1990's through orbital and Earth-based imaging radar. These images differ
from standard photographs, so specialized techniques must be used to interpret
the data. To better understand both the radar image data and the types
of features seen on Venus, CEPS researchers also study volcanoes and landslides
on Earth through field work and remote sensing. CEPS researchers are developing
a number of Venus geologic maps, using advanced digital presentation and
cartographic techniques.
More about Venus research at CEPS
List of Venus Research Projects
Terrestrial research at CEPS concentrates on the study of geophysical
processes on the Earth’s surface. These research projects are focused
on surface dynamics in arid regions and comparative planetology of volcanic
and tectonic landforms. The goals are to better understand processes such
as volcanism, flooding, cratering, tectonics, and sand movement, that
shape the surface of the Earth as we see it. Researchers at CEPS use field
work and remote sensing techniques to investigate geomorphology and environmental
changes on the Earth's surface.
More about Earth research at CEPS
List of Earth research projects
CEPS personnel are involved in a variety of research projects including
the study of lunar topography, cratering and impact basins, tectonics,
lava flows, and regolith properties. Understanding the surface features
and composition give insight in to the geologic history and origin of
the Moon. Research projects utilize the collections of manned and unmanned
lunar photography and data available in the RPIF, as well as Earth-based
observations.
More about Moon research at CEPS
List of Moon research projects
Mars research at CEPS makes use of traditional photogeological mapping
and image interpretation techniques, aided by quantitative analyses of
both landform shapes and dimensions. Often our investigations also include
measurements of the geophysical properties of the martian surface gained
from Earth-based radar and spacecraft remote sensing data. The goals of
these studies are to test proposed hypotheses of the origin for various
landforms or terrains. Many of these studies involve investigations of
terrestrial analog sites to gain insight into the details of potential
processes involved.
More about Mars research at CEPS
List of Mars research projects
CEPS staff are involved in a number of projects and collaborations with
agencies outside of the Smithsonian, as well as other departments of the
National Air and Space Museum. Often in these activites CEPS research
plays a key role in the educational or scientific value of the project.
List of Other Activites at CEPS
CEPS Publications
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