Michael Zanetti and Paul Bremner (ST13) conducted field work using the Kinematic Navigation and Cartography Knapsack (KNaCK) LiDAR Scanning instrument at Kilbourne Hole, NM volcanic maar. This campaign was in support of the Remote, In Situ, and Synchrotron Studies for Science and Exploration 2 (RISE2) and Geophysical Exploration of the Dynamics and Evolution of the Solar System (GEODES) comparative planetology analog research. Field work consisted of data collection using the KNaCK 3D LiDAR mapping system to create topographic maps of the area, as well as demonstrate no-light, night-time personal navigation using the KNaCK and head’s-up display glasses. Field work was conducted alongside NASA JSC-xEVA personnel during their tests of the ATLAS space-suit development project. Data will be used for geologic training of astronauts.
This effort was supported by the MSFC Marshall Interdisciplinary Planetary Scientists (MIPS) ISFM project funding and the STMD Early Career Initiative.
A writeup of progress with The Kinematic Navigation and Cartography Knapsack (KNaCK) LiDAR Scanning instrument was featured on NASA.gov on April 21, 2022, and remained on the front page for a week. See: https://www.nasa.gov/centers/marshall/news/releases/2022/nasa-partners-develop-lunar-backpack-technology-to-aid-new-moon-explorers.html.
The article was also circulated through major media outlets including the BBC.com, tech-crunch.com and many others. The article features images and movies of the KNaCK LiDAR Scanning instrument in action at Kilbourne Hole, NM.