Titan (Satellite)

Interview with Randolph Kirk, Scientist Emeritus at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center. Kirk discusses pursuing his PhD in planetary science, his interest in remote sensing and his thesis work on developing time photoclinometry. He describes in detail many of the changes that have taken place in planetary mapping over the years, as the field has shifted from analog techniques to digital. Kirk talks about the process of working with a software vendor to develop mapping software needed for USGS. He discusses his work on mapping Venus using radar altimetry, as well as the creation of the Venus globe, one of his favorite projects. Kirk describes the workflows of planetary mapping within USGS and the collaboration between draftsmen, geologists, airbrush artists, and other technicians. He talks about the process of deciding on landing sites for new rovers or landers, and he recalls the differences between mapping the landing sites for Mars Pathfinder versus Viking. Other projects mentioned include the Mars Exploration Rover, Curiosity and Cassini. The interview concludes with Kirk explaining the importance of planetary mapping in ensuring that data collected from space missions is synthesized into useable products. 

Interview with Mark Rosiek, a planetary photogrammetrist at the USGS Astrogeology Science Center. Rosiek discusses his work for the Air Force, prior to joining USGS, where he worked in image processing and satellite imagery. He then describes his work on mapping the landing site for the Huygens satellite on Titan, as well as his work on Martian contour maps using Viking images. Rosiek recalls his lunar mapping projects, specifically mapping the polar regions of the Moon. He describes differences between working with data from the Clementine mission versus the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. Rosiek reflects on the technological advances that have changed planetary mapping work over the years. He discusses his education at SUNY College of Forestry where he was introduced to photogrammetry and remote sensing. Rosiek also talks about collaborating with geologists in his work, and he explains the changing role of USGS in the field of planetary mapping. The interview concludes with Rosiek sharing the importance of planetary mapping work and the need to continue updating maps as new technology emerges.