## Breadcrumb

-  Science 
-  Science Explorer 
-  Maps and Mapping 
-  Planetary Science 

# Planetary Mapping

## USGS Releases Global Map of the Moon

### New map helps explain the 4.5-billion-year-old history of our nearest neighbor in space

Learn more about the map

## A Dynamic Career Launched with a Map

### USGS's Dr. Baerbel Lucchitta was a pioneer for women in space science

Read more

Did you know that USGS scientists also make maps of other planets, moons, and asteroids? Planetary mapping is a large part of space exploration! Planetary maps help NASA plan and complete new missions, and scientists use them to learn more about our solar system.

                  -              Overview           
                  -              Publications           
                  -              Science           
                  -              Maps           
                  -              News           

### Mapping in space

Planetary scientists create maps of other planets and moons beyond Earth. Even though planetary scientists can only view and map features that are exposed on the surface of a planetary body, that surface is the result of complex interactions within a 3D stack of different rock types (geologic units) that may extend deep underground. These maps show features like geologic units which are present in the map area and allow map readers to better understand the relationships between them.  

View Media Details

### Why do maps matter in space exploration?

Maps are an important part of space exploration and do more than help people navigate. They allow scientists and astronauts to understand how the rocks at one location relate to or are different from rocks at other locations. Maps can also be used to identify important resources like ice, which could be used to create building materials, fuel, or drinking water for astronauts. Maps can also be used to identify hazards like boulders or steep cliffs, that may make it unsafe for a rover to land, or for an astronaut to travel through an area. Using maps to identify safe, efficient, and scientifically useful routes for astronauts is called *traverse planning*.

Learn about Mission operations and training at the USGS

## Learn about Mission operations and training at the USGS

Read more: How did USGS maps help land the Perseverance Rover?

## Read more: How did USGS maps help land the Perseverance Rover?

### How are planetary maps different?

Planetary geologic maps are very similar to Earth-based geologic maps, but with one important difference: On Earth, mappers can use field-based observation as well as images taken from planes and orbiting spacecrafts. With a few exceptions for locations with rovers, landers, or crewed surface missions, planetary geologic mappers are not able to observe their map area up close and in person and have only images taken by orbiting spacecraft. This means they interpret and describe things differently than geologic maps of Earth. For example, terrestrial (Earth-based) geologic mappers commonly divide units by lithology (rock type) or grain size (for example, sand or gravel). Planetary geologic mappers often do not have detailed enough information to know what type of rock or grain size is present, and instead must divide the planet’s surface into geologic units using differences in tone (how bright or dark a material is), color, context, composition, and surface texture (at multiple scales). Units can be made of different rock types or be variations of the same rock type. The process of identifying geologic units and their characteristics helps scientists better understand the complex surfaces they study. 

Learn more about some of our recently-published geologic maps:

                                -  - linkApril 11, 2023                Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 Quadrangles              
The recently released USGS Geologic Map of the Source Region of Shalbatana Vallis, Mars (Berman et al., 2023) is a detailed look at one of Mars' unique outflow channels - Shalbatana Vallis - which originates within the collapsed floor of the Orson Welles impact crater.
ByAstrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic Mapping 
- linkJanuary 12, 2023                A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About Mars              
The USGS Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, Arizona recently released a series of geologic Martian maps that could all be impactful to future missions to the Red Planet. Does size matter? In this case, yes. Size, or scale, is an important feature when building a geologic map.
ByAstrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic Mapping 
 

### How can you map if you can't go there?

Because they can’t physically visit their study locations, planetary scientists and mappers use many kinds of data from different spacecraft and instruments. This allows them to understand the rocks in a variety of ways, not just how they look to the naked eye. In addition to the cameras most people are familiar with, missions carry instruments that collect images using infrared and ultraviolet light, which are outside the range that is visible to the human eye. These images measure the amount of reflected or emitted light at many different wavelengths, can reveal what minerals and chemicals are present much like the fingerprint of a rock. Infrared data can measure how quickly a unit heats up and cools off during the day-night cycle (thermal inertia), which can be used to estimate how solid a material is: solid rocks heat up and cool down slowly, while loose materials like sand heat and cool rapidly.

Learn more about Remote Sensing and Space Exploration

## Learn more about Remote Sensing and Space Exploration

Learn how we use moonlight to make our observations better

## Learn how we use moonlight to make our observations better

### How can we tell how a rock formed on another planetary body?

During the mapping process, scientists develop interpretations for each unit. These interpretations suggest how each unit formed, through impacts, volcanism, or sedimentary processes. Geological interpretations are often based on observations of geological processes made here on Earth and experiments conducted in laboratories. However, many geologic properties that can be observed during planetary mapping can be caused by more than one process, so it is very important for mappers to keep their interpretations separate from their observations. 

Learn about common planetary processes

## Learn about common planetary processes

Terrestrial Analogs: Using the Earth to learn about space

## Terrestrial Analogs: Using the Earth to learn about space

### How do we name features on other planetary bodies?

Planetary scientists name features so they have easy and consistent names to use when talking about locations. It's much simpler to say "Jezero crater" than trying to describe one specific crater on a planetary surface. Features on other planetary bodies get named just like mountains and rivers on Earth, and each planetary body has a theme for names. Each type of feature on that body (like craters) has an even more specific theme. For example, features on Venus are all named after women: dorsa (long ridges) are all named after sky goddesses, plana (plains) are named after goddesses of prosperity, and large craters are named after women who have made outstanding contributions to their field.

Anyone can propose a name for a planetary feature. Names must fit the category for that feature and planetary body, and proposers must explain why the feature should be named. The International Astronomical Union reviews proposed names, and if they are accepted, they become official. Learn more about names across the solar system at the Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature.

Learn more about planetary naming themes

## Learn more about planetary naming themes

Read about a recently-named crater on the Moon

## Read about a recently-named crater on the Moon

## Publications

March 2, 2023

####                 User’s Guide to planetary image analysis and geologic mapping in ArcGIS Pro              

Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

June 21, 2022

####                 Planetary geologic mapping protocol—2022              

Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

February 27, 2019

####                 Planetary geologic mapping—Program status and future needs              

Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

View All

## News

Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 Quadrangles

April 11, 2023

####   Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 Quadrangles

USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023

April 11, 2023

####   USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023

A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About Mars

January 12, 2023

####   A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About Mars

View All

March 2, 2023

####                 User’s Guide to planetary image analysis and geologic mapping in ArcGIS Pro              

Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

June 21, 2022

####                 Planetary geologic mapping protocol—2022              

Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

February 27, 2019

####                 Planetary geologic mapping—Program status and future needs              

Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

The Planetary Geologic Mapping Program

## The Planetary Geologic Mapping Program

The USGS Astrogeology Science Center

## The USGS Astrogeology Science Center

Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature

## Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature

Search USGS maps by body

## Search USGS maps by body

Explore our interactive planetary maps

## Explore our interactive planetary maps

Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 Quadrangles

April 11, 2023

####   Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 Quadrangles

The recently released USGS Geologic Map of the Source Region of Shalbatana Vallis, Mars (Berman et al., 2023) is a detailed look at one of Mars'...

Read Article

USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023

April 11, 2023

####   USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023

Welcome to the first USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Program Quarterly Report! We have been focusing on getting USGS-published geologic maps...

Read Article

A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About Mars

January 12, 2023

####   A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About Mars

The USGS Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, Arizona recently released a series of geologic Martian maps that could all be impactful to future...

Read Article

Planetary Geologic Mapping Workshop, June 2022

March 16, 2022

####   Planetary Geologic Mapping Workshop, June 2022

Welcome! We’re offering a workshop in planetary geologic mapping, planned for Flagstaff, AZ, June 23- July 1.

Read Article

NASA Selects USGS Scientist to Join the VIPER Science Team

January 15, 2022

####   NASA Selects USGS Scientist to Join the VIPER Science Team

Picture yourself as a scientist who has wanted to explore the Moon since their childhood and then NASA invites you to join the Volatile Investigating...

Read Article

Coloring activity: Explore Jezero Crater with the Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover

February 17, 2021

####   Coloring activity: Explore Jezero Crater with the Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover

On February 18, 2021, the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover will land in Jezero crater and begin its search for signs of previous life on Mars. You can...

Read Article

The Astrogeology Planetary Geologic Mapping Group and the Mars 2020 Rover: A Partnership Built on Bedrock

January 19, 2021

####   The Astrogeology Planetary Geologic Mapping Group and the Mars 2020 Rover: A Partnership Built on Bedrock

As the Perseverance rover speeds its way towards Mars, its Earth-based human counterparts have worked tirelessly to prepare for the rover’s arrival at...

Read Article

USGS and JPL Release New Geologic Map of Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover Landing Site

December 11, 2020

####   USGS and JPL Release New Geologic Map of Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover Landing Site

There is a parable about a group of blind men encountering an elephant for the first time and coming to different conclusions about it depending upon...

Read Article

Planetary Mapping an Undeniable Tradition at ASC

August 17, 2020

####   Planetary Mapping an Undeniable Tradition at ASC

Planetary geologic mapping began in 1962 at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and continues today at the Astrogeology Science Center (ASC).  Geologic...

Read Article

Mars 2020 Mission to be Guided by USGS Astrogeology Maps

July 27, 2020

####   Mars 2020 Mission to be Guided by USGS Astrogeology Maps

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – When you’re planning to explore someplace new, it’s always a good idea to bring a map so you can avoid dangerous terrain. This is...

Read Article

Astrogeology releases a new map of the Moon

April 20, 2020

####   Astrogeology releases a new map of the Moon

The USGS Astrogeology Science Center (ASC), in collaboration with NASA and the Lunar and Planetary Institute, has released a new definitive geologic...

Read Article

Mercury Map Re-printed Due to High Demand!

March 20, 2020

####   Mercury Map Re-printed Due to High Demand!

Our recently published image and topographic maps of Mercury (USGS SIM 3404) have been re-printed due to high demand! These maps were based on data...

Read Article

#### Pagination

-                Current page            1 
-                Page            2 
-  Next page›› 
-  Last pageLast » 

                  - Overview  Mapping in space
Planetary scientists create maps of other planets and moons beyond Earth. Even though planetary scientists can only view and map features that are exposed on the surface of a planetary body, that surface is the result of complex interactions within a 3D stack of different rock types (geologic units) that may extend deep underground. These maps show features like geologic units which are present in the map area and allow map readers to better understand the relationships between them.  
        Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media DetailsWhy do maps matter in space exploration?
Maps are an important part of space exploration and do more than help people navigate. They allow scientists and astronauts to understand how the rocks at one location relate to or are different from rocks at other locations. Maps can also be used to identify important resources like ice, which could be used to create building materials, fuel, or drinking water for astronauts. Maps can also be used to identify hazards like boulders or steep cliffs, that may make it unsafe for a rover to land, or for an astronaut to travel through an area. Using maps to identify safe, efficient, and scientifically useful routes for astronauts is called *traverse planning*.
Learn about Mission operations and training at the USGSLearn about Mission operations and training at the USGSRead more: How did USGS maps help land the Perseverance Rover?Read more: How did USGS maps help land the Perseverance Rover?How are planetary maps different?
Planetary geologic maps are very similar to Earth-based geologic maps, but with one important difference: On Earth, mappers can use field-based observation as well as images taken from planes and orbiting spacecrafts. With a few exceptions for locations with rovers, landers, or crewed surface missions, planetary geologic mappers are not able to observe their map area up close and in person and have only images taken by orbiting spacecraft. This means they interpret and describe things differently than geologic maps of Earth. For example, terrestrial (Earth-based) geologic mappers commonly divide units by lithology (rock type) or grain size (for example, sand or gravel). Planetary geologic mappers often do not have detailed enough information to know what type of rock or grain size is present, and instead must divide the planet’s surface into geologic units using differences in tone (how bright or dark a material is), color, context, composition, and surface texture (at multiple scales). Units can be made of different rock types or be variations of the same rock type. The process of identifying geologic units and their characteristics helps scientists better understand the complex surfaces they study. 

Learn more about some of our recently-published geologic maps:
-  - linkApril 11, 2023                Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 Quadrangles              
The recently released USGS Geologic Map of the Source Region of Shalbatana Vallis, Mars (Berman et al., 2023) is a detailed look at one of Mars' unique outflow channels - Shalbatana Vallis - which originates within the collapsed floor of the Orson Welles impact crater.
ByAstrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic Mapping 
- linkJanuary 12, 2023                A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About Mars              
The USGS Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, Arizona recently released a series of geologic Martian maps that could all be impactful to future missions to the Red Planet. Does size matter? In this case, yes. Size, or scale, is an important feature when building a geologic map.
ByAstrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic Mapping 
 
How can you map if you can't go there?
Because they can’t physically visit their study locations, planetary scientists and mappers use many kinds of data from different spacecraft and instruments. This allows them to understand the rocks in a variety of ways, not just how they look to the naked eye. In addition to the cameras most people are familiar with, missions carry instruments that collect images using infrared and ultraviolet light, which are outside the range that is visible to the human eye. These images measure the amount of reflected or emitted light at many different wavelengths, can reveal what minerals and chemicals are present much like the fingerprint of a rock. Infrared data can measure how quickly a unit heats up and cools off during the day-night cycle (thermal inertia), which can be used to estimate how solid a material is: solid rocks heat up and cool down slowly, while loose materials like sand heat and cool rapidly.
Learn more about Remote Sensing and Space ExplorationLearn more about Remote Sensing and Space ExplorationLearn how we use moonlight to make our observations betterLearn how we use moonlight to make our observations betterHow can we tell how a rock formed on another planetary body?
During the mapping process, scientists develop interpretations for each unit. These interpretations suggest how each unit formed, through impacts, volcanism, or sedimentary processes. Geological interpretations are often based on observations of geological processes made here on Earth and experiments conducted in laboratories. However, many geologic properties that can be observed during planetary mapping can be caused by more than one process, so it is very important for mappers to keep their interpretations separate from their observations. 
Learn about common planetary processesLearn about common planetary processesTerrestrial Analogs: Using the Earth to learn about spaceTerrestrial Analogs: Using the Earth to learn about spaceHow do we name features on other planetary bodies?
Planetary scientists name features so they have easy and consistent names to use when talking about locations. It's much simpler to say "Jezero crater" than trying to describe one specific crater on a planetary surface. Features on other planetary bodies get named just like mountains and rivers on Earth, and each planetary body has a theme for names. Each type of feature on that body (like craters) has an even more specific theme. For example, features on Venus are all named after women: dorsa (long ridges) are all named after sky goddesses, plana (plains) are named after goddesses of prosperity, and large craters are named after women who have made outstanding contributions to their field.

Anyone can propose a name for a planetary feature. Names must fit the category for that feature and planetary body, and proposers must explain why the feature should be named. The International Astronomical Union reviews proposed names, and if they are accepted, they become official. Learn more about names across the solar system at the Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature.
Learn more about planetary naming themesLearn more about planetary naming themesRead about a recently-named crater on the MoonRead about a recently-named crater on the MoonPublicationsMarch 2, 2023                User’s Guide to planetary image analysis and geologic mapping in ArcGIS Pro              Geologic maps are valuable tools in planetary science. Though planetary geologic maps are similar to terrestrial (Earthbased) geologic maps, the nature of planetary exploration introduces unique challenges for geologic mappers. Terrestrial geologic mappers prepare products from field-based observation, often comparing or refining those with aerial and (or) orbital images. Planetary geologic mappinAuthorsSarah R. BlackByNatural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science CenterJune 21, 2022                Planetary geologic mapping protocol—2022              The Planetary Geologic Mapping Protocol covers the idealized process of compiling a NASA-funded map product of a non-terrestrial solid surface planetary body for U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) publication and summarizes technical specifications of the Mapping Process for authors and reviewers. Directed by community and programmatic recommendations, the USGS Planetary Geologic Map Coordination GroupAuthorsJames A. Skinner, Alexandra E. Huff, Sarah R. Black, Holly C. Buban, Corey M. Fortezzo, Tenielle A. Gaither, Trent M. Hare, Marc A. HunterByNatural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science CenterFebruary 27, 2019                Planetary geologic mapping—Program status and future needs              The United States Geological Survey’s (USGS) Planetary Geologic Map Coordination Group (Flagstaff, Ariz.) surveyed planetary geoscience map makers and users to determine the importance, relevance, and usability of such products to their planetary science research and to current and future needs of the planetary science community. This survey was prepared because the planetary science community lacAuthorsJames A. Skinner, Alexandra E. Huff, Corey M. Fortezzo, Tenielle Gaither, Trent M. Hare, Marc A. Hunter, Holly BubanByNatural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science CenterView AllNewsMap Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 QuadranglesApril 11, 2023  Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 QuadranglesUSGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023April 11, 2023  USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About MarsJanuary 12, 2023  A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About MarsView All 
                  - Publications  LabelMarch 2, 2023                User’s Guide to planetary image analysis and geologic mapping in ArcGIS Pro              Geologic maps are valuable tools in planetary science. Though planetary geologic maps are similar to terrestrial (Earthbased) geologic maps, the nature of planetary exploration introduces unique challenges for geologic mappers. Terrestrial geologic mappers prepare products from field-based observation, often comparing or refining those with aerial and (or) orbital images. Planetary geologic mappinAuthorsSarah R. BlackByNatural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science CenterJune 21, 2022                Planetary geologic mapping protocol—2022              The Planetary Geologic Mapping Protocol covers the idealized process of compiling a NASA-funded map product of a non-terrestrial solid surface planetary body for U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) publication and summarizes technical specifications of the Mapping Process for authors and reviewers. Directed by community and programmatic recommendations, the USGS Planetary Geologic Map Coordination GroupAuthorsJames A. Skinner, Alexandra E. Huff, Sarah R. Black, Holly C. Buban, Corey M. Fortezzo, Tenielle A. Gaither, Trent M. Hare, Marc A. HunterByNatural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science CenterFebruary 27, 2019                Planetary geologic mapping—Program status and future needs              The United States Geological Survey’s (USGS) Planetary Geologic Map Coordination Group (Flagstaff, Ariz.) surveyed planetary geoscience map makers and users to determine the importance, relevance, and usability of such products to their planetary science research and to current and future needs of the planetary science community. This survey was prepared because the planetary science community lacAuthorsJames A. Skinner, Alexandra E. Huff, Corey M. Fortezzo, Tenielle Gaither, Trent M. Hare, Marc A. Hunter, Holly BubanByNatural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center 
                  - Science  The Planetary Geologic Mapping ProgramThe Planetary Geologic Mapping ProgramThe USGS Astrogeology Science CenterThe USGS Astrogeology Science CenterGazetteer of Planetary NomenclatureGazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature 
                  - Maps  Search USGS maps by bodySearch USGS maps by bodyExplore our interactive planetary mapsExplore our interactive planetary maps 
                  - News  Filter Total Items: 18Content typeTypeNewsNewsletterRelease Date (field_release_date)Year202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995TitleLabel**Advanced filtersLocation(s) (field_states)LocationAlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoCommonwealth of the Northern Mariana IslandsConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasU.S. Virgin IslandsUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingMap Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 QuadranglesApril 11, 2023  Map Highlight(s): Say Cheese, Mars! Shalbatana Vallis + Mariner 9 Quadrangles
The recently released USGS Geologic Map of the Source Region of Shalbatana Vallis, Mars (Berman et al., 2023) is a detailed look at one of Mars'...
Read Article**USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023April 11, 2023  USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 2023
Welcome to the first USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Program Quarterly Report! We have been focusing on getting USGS-published geologic maps...
Read Article**A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About MarsJanuary 12, 2023  A Martian Mons Mystery, (Paleo) Climate Change, and Rivers of Lava: What Three New USGS Maps Reveal About Mars
The USGS Astrogeology Science Center in Flagstaff, Arizona recently released a series of geologic Martian maps that could all be impactful to future...
Read Article**Planetary Geologic Mapping Workshop, June 2022March 16, 2022  Planetary Geologic Mapping Workshop, June 2022
Welcome! We’re offering a workshop in planetary geologic mapping, planned for Flagstaff, AZ, June 23- July 1.
Read Article**NASA Selects USGS Scientist to Join the VIPER Science TeamJanuary 15, 2022  NASA Selects USGS Scientist to Join the VIPER Science Team
Picture yourself as a scientist who has wanted to explore the Moon since their childhood and then NASA invites you to join the Volatile Investigating...
Read Article**Coloring activity: Explore Jezero Crater with the Mars 2020 Perseverance RoverFebruary 17, 2021  Coloring activity: Explore Jezero Crater with the Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover
On February 18, 2021, the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover will land in Jezero crater and begin its search for signs of previous life on Mars. You can...
Read Article**The Astrogeology Planetary Geologic Mapping Group and the Mars 2020 Rover: A Partnership Built on BedrockJanuary 19, 2021  The Astrogeology Planetary Geologic Mapping Group and the Mars 2020 Rover: A Partnership Built on Bedrock
As the Perseverance rover speeds its way towards Mars, its Earth-based human counterparts have worked tirelessly to prepare for the rover’s arrival at...
Read Article**USGS and JPL Release New Geologic Map of Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover Landing SiteDecember 11, 2020  USGS and JPL Release New Geologic Map of Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover Landing Site
There is a parable about a group of blind men encountering an elephant for the first time and coming to different conclusions about it depending upon...
Read Article**Planetary Mapping an Undeniable Tradition at ASCAugust 17, 2020  Planetary Mapping an Undeniable Tradition at ASC
Planetary geologic mapping began in 1962 at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and continues today at the Astrogeology Science Center (ASC).  Geologic...
Read Article**Mars 2020 Mission to be Guided by USGS Astrogeology MapsJuly 27, 2020  Mars 2020 Mission to be Guided by USGS Astrogeology Maps
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – When you’re planning to explore someplace new, it’s always a good idea to bring a map so you can avoid dangerous terrain. This is...
Read Article**Astrogeology releases a new map of the MoonApril 20, 2020  Astrogeology releases a new map of the Moon
The USGS Astrogeology Science Center (ASC), in collaboration with NASA and the Lunar and Planetary Institute, has released a new definitive geologic...
Read Article**Mercury Map Re-printed Due to High Demand!March 20, 2020  Mercury Map Re-printed Due to High Demand!
Our recently published image and topographic maps of Mercury (USGS SIM 3404) have been re-printed due to high demand! These maps were based on data...
Read Article**Pagination-                Current page            1 
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