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We present a synthesis of lunar science results from SMART-1 innovative instruments and advanced technologies.
SMART-1 lunar science investigations include studies of the chemical composition of the Moon, of geophysical processes (volcanism, tectonics, cratering, erosion, polar studies) for comparative planetology, and high resolution studies in preparation for future steps of lunar exploration.
SMART-1 lunar science results: A package of three spectroscopy and imaging instruments has performed science at the Moon.
SIR (Smart-1 Infra-Red Spectrometer) has been operating in the 0.9-2.6 μm wavelength range and carrying out mineralogical survey of the lunar crust. SIR had high enough spectral resolution to separate the pyroxene and olivine signatures in lunar soils.
AMIE (Advanced-Moon micro-Imager Experiment) is a miniature high resolution (35 m pixel at 350 km perilune height) camera, equipped with a fixed panchromatic and 3-colour filter, for Moon topography and imaging support to other experiments , and to preview future sites for sampling return. Lunar North polar maps and South pole repeated high resolution images have been obtained, giving a monitoring of illumination to map potential sites relevant for future exploration .
D-CIXS (Demonstration of a Compact Imaging X-ray Spectrometer) is based on novel detector and filter/collimator technologies, and has performing the first lunar X-ray fluorescence global mapping in the 0.5–10 keV range .
The SMART-1 observations have been coordinated with upcoming missions. SMART-1 has been useful in the preparation of Selene Kaguya, the Indian lunar mission Chandrayaan-1, Chinese Chang’E 1, the US Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, LCROSS, and subsequent lunar landers. SMART-1 has contributed to prepare the next steps for exploration: survey of resources, monitoring polar illumination, and mapping of sites for potential landings, international robotic villages and for future human activities and lunar bases.
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