The Augmented Reality Data Visualization Analog Research Campaign (ARDVARC) is a proposed pair of lunar analog deployments that would assess: 1) the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for a lunar rover deployed as a precursor mission to a low-angle lighting environment, and 2) the use of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) data visualization based on precursor rover data to aid astronauts with navigation and scientific investigations in a low-angle lighting environment. We plan to use basalt deposits in the San Francisco Volcanic Field (SFVF) near Flagstaff, Arizona, for the proposed field deployments. Analog operations will be conducted at night with bright near-horizon light sources to simulate conditions similar to those that the Artemis astronauts will experience at the lunar south pole. This analog scenario would underscore the challenges of conducting both rover and astronaut missions in a polar lighting environment, as well as highlight the usefulness of AR data visualization in low-angle lighting conditions. This proposal would adapt existing prototype AR visualization software for use in the analog mission scenarios. The proposed work is relevant to NASA's current exploration goals as lessons learned can directly impact ongoing planning for the Artemis program. The proposed work is also relevant to the NASA PSTAR program in the Science Operations and Technology areas as the fieldwork and the AR development would enable evaluation of both CONOPS in polar lighting environments and new technology relevant for future planetary surface exploration.?
Posting date: Tue, 01/16/2024
Award start date: Sat, 10/01/2022
Award end date: Tue, 09/30/2025