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Towards Automated Mineral Identification In Martian Rocks From X-Ray Diffraction Patterns, Luke Tambakis
Towards Automated Mineral Identification In Martian Rocks From X-Ray Diffraction Patterns, Luke Tambakis
Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository
The CheMin (Chemistry and Mineralogy) instrument on the Curiosity rover has provided a rich set of X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns from Martian rocks and regolith. These XRD patterns have allowed geologists to make exciting new discoveries about the mineralogy and the geological history of Mars. These discoveries pave the way for further Martian exploration and provide a deeper understanding of Martian geology. The Curiosity rover is very slow by design, travelling at about 4 cm/s. New, faster rovers are being developed to increase scientific throughput and exploration. XRD is valuable for future missions as it can produce new discov- eries …