50 Years of Sensor-Based Planetary Cartography: Review and Perspectives

Abstract

Abstract. This contribution provides a concise review of the current developments and challenges in the domain of planetary cartography. Considered to be one of the more exotic branches of cartography, it currently re-positions itself due to (1) an increasing community-centric research interest, but also due to (2) the current development in the field of space exploration led by industry as well as ambitious international countries. Imaging, mapping and cartographic compilation have always been the primary tools for exploring terrain, and while the terrestrial planets have been mapped in some relative detail, planetary cartography is still largely stuck at medium map scales. While planetary cartography shares some similarities with developments in the field of terrestrial cartography, it developed largely differently and thus requires in-depth discussion about how these new challenges can be addressed and eventually solved. Advice and support from the terrestrial cartographic community is highly needed in order to develop sustainable long-term strategies.