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Global spatial deconvolution of Lunar Prospector Th abundances
Author(s) -
Lawrence D. J.,
Puetter R. C.,
Elphic R. C.,
Feldman W. C.,
Hagerty J. J.,
Prettyman T. H.,
Spudis P. D.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2006gl028530
Subject(s) - deconvolution , spatial distribution , remote sensing , image resolution , geology , environmental science , physics , optics
We have completed the first global spatial deconvolution analysis of planetary gamma‐ray data for lunar Th abundances as measured by the Lunar Prospector Gamma‐ray Spectrometer. We tested two different spatial deconvolution techniques – Jansson's method and the Pixon method – and determined that the Pixon method provides superior performance. The final deconvolved map results in a spatial resolution improvement of a factor of 1.5–2. The newly deconvolved data allow us to clearly delineate nearside Th enhancements and depressions, validate enhanced Th abundances associated with specific lunar red spots, and reveal new details of the Th distribution at the Aristarchus plateau.