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We have improved the knowledge of lunar north and south polar topography by using Clementine and Lunar Orbiter images, controlling the images to the ULCN 2005 control network, and capturing features previously missed by automatic terrain extraction methods. Using images from these missions, we collected a dense network of ground control points that delineate the general geomorphology of the area, including the topographic highs and lows that are visible in the images. These points were used to define a triangulated irregular network (TIN) elevation model which was then edited against stereo image pairs, including stereo image pairs formed by using a Clementine image with a Lunar Orbiter image.
Our poster will include maps showing differences in the topography from the ULCN 2005 results. Preliminary results show the horizontal changes are within the published horizontal accuracy of the ULCN 2005 network of 500 m. For a majority of the area mapped, the vertical changes were also within the published expected precision of the ULCN 2005. The greatest changes were in some mountainous areas where the elevation increased.
We will also include a comparison to the elevation data recently released by the Laser Altimeter (LALT) instrument team of the JAXA Kaguya/SELENE mission.
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