Performance and surface scattering models for the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionosphere Sounding (MARSIS)

摘要: Abstract The primary scientific objective of the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionosphere Sounding (MARSIS), which will be on board Express mission scheduled launch in 2003, is to map distribution depth liquid water/ice interface upper kilometres crust Mars. MARSIS also provide unique information help us understand recent crustal evolution planet. In addition an ionosphere sounding experiment measure electron density structure atmosphere during day-time operations. We describe design approach expected performance by focusing a model surface scattering, critical obtaining good quality radar response. characterize terms large-scale morphology upon small-scale geometric variation superposed. Moreover, MOLA data have been processed using fractals better roughness used three categories rock material with different dielectric properties assess Sounder detect ice/water dry/ice interface. This paper focus studying effect penetration as subsurface instrument. impact operation significant discussed future other authors.