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Sarah R. Black, PhD (Former Employee)

Science and Products

User’s Guide to planetary image analysis and geologic mapping in ArcGIS Pro 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...
Authors
Sarah Black
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

Planetary geologic mapping protocol—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...
Authors
James Skinner, Alexandra Huff, Sarah Black, Holly Buban, Corey Fortezzo, Tenielle Gaither, Trent Hare, Marc Hunter
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

Non-USGS Publications**

Yingst, R. A., Bartley, J. K., Chidsey, T. J., Cohen, B. A., Curran, N., Hynek, B. M., Kah, L. C., Minitti, M. E., Vanden Berg, M. D., Williams, R. M. E., Gemperline, J., Lotto, M., Black, S. R., Bartley, B. C., and Pearson, T. (2022), Testing Rover Science Protocols to Identify Possible Biosignatures on Mars: Achieving Sampling Goals Under a Highly Constrained Time Line, Astrobiology, 22(11), https://doi.org/10.1089/ast.2021.0177.
Yingst, R. A., Bartley, J., Chidsey, T., Cohen, B. A., Hynek, B. M., Kah, L. C., Minitti, M.E., Vanden Berg, M., Williams, R. M. E., Adams, M., Black, S. R., El-Maary, M. R., Gemperline, J., Kronyak, R., and Lotto, M., (2020), Is a linear or a walkabout first protocol more efficient for robotic sample selection in a small region of interest?, Astrobiology, 20(3), https://doi.org/10.1089/ast.2019.2090.
Wolfe, J. D., and Black, S. R. (2018), Hyperspectral Analytics in ENVI: Target Detection and Spectral Mapping Methods, L3Harris Geospatial Solutions white paper, https://www.l3harrisgeospatial.com/Learn/Whitepapers/Hyperspectral-Whitepaper
Black, S. R. and Hynek, B. M. (2018), Characterization of Terrestrial Hydrothermal Alteration products with Mars Analog Instrumentation: Implications for Current and Future Rover Investigations, Icarus, 307, 235-259. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.icarus.2017.10.032.
Yingst, R. A., Bartley, J. Chidsey, T., Cohen, B. A., Gilleaudeau, G. J., Hynek, B. M., Kah, L. C., Minitti, M. E., Williams, R. M. E., Black, S. R., Gemperline, J., Thomas, R., and Schaufler, R. (2017), Testing the efficiency of rover science protocols for robotic sample selection: A GeoHeuristic Operational Strategies Test, Acta Astronautica, 146, 300-315. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2018.02.029.
Black, S. R., Yingst, R. A., and Hynek, B. M. (2016), Field-Portable VNIR Spectrometry: Applications for Mars Rover Operational Strategies Testing at Terrestrial Analog Sites, Spectroscopy, September 1, 2016.
Black, S. R. (2018), Identification and Characterization of Martian Acid-Sulfate Hydrothermal Alteration: An Investigation of Instrumentation Techniques and Geochemical Processes Through Laboratory Experiments and Terrestrial Analog Studies. Doctoral Dissertation. University of Colorado Boulder Department of Geological Sciences.
Black, S. R. (2006), The Origin and Evolution of Islands in Ionian Paterae. Masters Thesis. The State University of New York at Buffalo Department of Geology

**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.

USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Program

USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Program

MRCTR GIS Lab

MRCTR GIS Lab

Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)

Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)

Geographic Boundaries Of Planetary Geologic Maps Geographic Boundaries Of Planetary Geologic Maps

A polygon layer of regions of multiple planetary bodies beyond Earth that are covered by proposed or published planetary geologic maps published by the USGS.
By
Astrogeology Science Center
Demo: Creating Topographic Profiles in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating Topographic Profiles in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating Custom Projections in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating Custom Projections in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating and Editing Geologic Units Using the PGM Toolbox

Demo: Creating and Editing Geologic Units Using the PGM Toolbox

Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro
User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro
Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of the ArcGIS Pro interface, including how to create a new project and import preexisting projects in both .mxd (ArcMap) and .aprx (ArcGIS Pro) formats.


 

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of the ArcGIS Pro interface, including how to create a new project and import preexisting projects in both .mxd (ArcMap) and .aprx (ArcGIS Pro) formats.


 

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro
User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters
Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of working with rasters in ArcGIS Pro, beginning with adding raster data to a map project and modifying its display properties and symbology.

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of working with rasters in ArcGIS Pro, beginning with adding raster data to a map project and modifying its display properties and symbology.

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
The Solar Eclipse and Our Place in Space

The Solar Eclipse and Our Place in Space

On April 8, 2024, millions of people across North America will have the chance to witness a rare and spectacular phenomenon – a total solar eclipse. 

Read Article
USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 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
Planetary Geologic Mapping Workshop, June 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
A Virtual Field-trip Guide to S P Mountain Just Released by Astrogeology Science Center!

A Virtual Field-trip Guide to S P Mountain Just Released by Astrogeology Science Center!

If you are interested in volcanology,  you should check out our newly-released virtual S P Mountain Field Guide. S P Mountain is a textbook example of...

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

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

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

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

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

Science and Products

User’s Guide to planetary image analysis and geologic mapping in ArcGIS Pro 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...
Authors
Sarah Black
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

Planetary geologic mapping protocol—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...
Authors
James Skinner, Alexandra Huff, Sarah Black, Holly Buban, Corey Fortezzo, Tenielle Gaither, Trent Hare, Marc Hunter
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center

Non-USGS Publications**

Yingst, R. A., Bartley, J. K., Chidsey, T. J., Cohen, B. A., Curran, N., Hynek, B. M., Kah, L. C., Minitti, M. E., Vanden Berg, M. D., Williams, R. M. E., Gemperline, J., Lotto, M., Black, S. R., Bartley, B. C., and Pearson, T. (2022), Testing Rover Science Protocols to Identify Possible Biosignatures on Mars: Achieving Sampling Goals Under a Highly Constrained Time Line, Astrobiology, 22(11), https://doi.org/10.1089/ast.2021.0177.
Yingst, R. A., Bartley, J., Chidsey, T., Cohen, B. A., Hynek, B. M., Kah, L. C., Minitti, M.E., Vanden Berg, M., Williams, R. M. E., Adams, M., Black, S. R., El-Maary, M. R., Gemperline, J., Kronyak, R., and Lotto, M., (2020), Is a linear or a walkabout first protocol more efficient for robotic sample selection in a small region of interest?, Astrobiology, 20(3), https://doi.org/10.1089/ast.2019.2090.
Wolfe, J. D., and Black, S. R. (2018), Hyperspectral Analytics in ENVI: Target Detection and Spectral Mapping Methods, L3Harris Geospatial Solutions white paper, https://www.l3harrisgeospatial.com/Learn/Whitepapers/Hyperspectral-Whitepaper
Black, S. R. and Hynek, B. M. (2018), Characterization of Terrestrial Hydrothermal Alteration products with Mars Analog Instrumentation: Implications for Current and Future Rover Investigations, Icarus, 307, 235-259. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.icarus.2017.10.032.
Yingst, R. A., Bartley, J. Chidsey, T., Cohen, B. A., Gilleaudeau, G. J., Hynek, B. M., Kah, L. C., Minitti, M. E., Williams, R. M. E., Black, S. R., Gemperline, J., Thomas, R., and Schaufler, R. (2017), Testing the efficiency of rover science protocols for robotic sample selection: A GeoHeuristic Operational Strategies Test, Acta Astronautica, 146, 300-315. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2018.02.029.
Black, S. R., Yingst, R. A., and Hynek, B. M. (2016), Field-Portable VNIR Spectrometry: Applications for Mars Rover Operational Strategies Testing at Terrestrial Analog Sites, Spectroscopy, September 1, 2016.
Black, S. R. (2018), Identification and Characterization of Martian Acid-Sulfate Hydrothermal Alteration: An Investigation of Instrumentation Techniques and Geochemical Processes Through Laboratory Experiments and Terrestrial Analog Studies. Doctoral Dissertation. University of Colorado Boulder Department of Geological Sciences.
Black, S. R. (2006), The Origin and Evolution of Islands in Ionian Paterae. Masters Thesis. The State University of New York at Buffalo Department of Geology

**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.

USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Program

USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Program

MRCTR GIS Lab

MRCTR GIS Lab

Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)

Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)

Geographic Boundaries Of Planetary Geologic Maps Geographic Boundaries Of Planetary Geologic Maps

A polygon layer of regions of multiple planetary bodies beyond Earth that are covered by proposed or published planetary geologic maps published by the USGS.
By
Astrogeology Science Center
Demo: Creating Topographic Profiles in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating Topographic Profiles in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating Custom Projections in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating Custom Projections in ArcGIS Pro

Demo: Creating and Editing Geologic Units Using the PGM Toolbox

Demo: Creating and Editing Geologic Units Using the PGM Toolbox

Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro
User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro
Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of the ArcGIS Pro interface, including how to create a new project and import preexisting projects in both .mxd (ArcMap) and .aprx (ArcGIS Pro) formats.


 

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
Still frame from demo video showing an introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 1: Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of the ArcGIS Pro interface, including how to create a new project and import preexisting projects in both .mxd (ArcMap) and .aprx (ArcGIS Pro) formats.


 

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro
User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters
Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of working with rasters in ArcGIS Pro, beginning with adding raster data to a map project and modifying its display properties and symbology.

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
Still frame from demo video showing how to work with rasters in ArcGIS Pro

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

User’s Guide to Planetary Image Analysis and Geologic Mapping in ArcGIS Pro - Part 2: Working with Rasters

In this demonstration video, you will learn the basics of working with rasters in ArcGIS Pro, beginning with adding raster data to a map project and modifying its display properties and symbology.

By
Planetary Geologic Mapping
The Solar Eclipse and Our Place in Space

The Solar Eclipse and Our Place in Space

On April 8, 2024, millions of people across North America will have the chance to witness a rare and spectacular phenomenon – a total solar eclipse. 

Read Article
USGS-NASA Planetary Geologic Mapping Quarterly Update - Spring 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
Planetary Geologic Mapping Workshop, June 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
A Virtual Field-trip Guide to S P Mountain Just Released by Astrogeology Science Center!

A Virtual Field-trip Guide to S P Mountain Just Released by Astrogeology Science Center!

If you are interested in volcanology,  you should check out our newly-released virtual S P Mountain Field Guide. S P Mountain is a textbook example of...

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

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

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

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

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
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