Laboratory VNIR emissivity spectra of Venus analogue rocks for EnVision and VERITAS and the VenSpec-M/VEM verification plan

Kurzfassung

The Venus Emissivity Mapper (VEM) on the VERITAS mission and the VenSpec-M on the ESA EnVision mission are similar multi-spectral imaging systems designed specifically for mapping the surface of Venus using the near infrared atmospheric windows around 1 μm. VEM/VenSpec-M will provide the first global map of rock types on the surface of Venus as well as constant monitoring for volcanic activity at global (VERITAS) and regional/local (EnVision) scales. To correctly interpret VEM/VenSpec-M data and map the Venus surface composition, a proper data verification plan is needed. We outline here a basic plan that not only provides fundamental data needed for VEM and VenSpec-M, but can also be adapted to create data products suitable for calibration of the VenDi (Venus Descent Imager) instrument on the DAVINCI mission. Such use of an integrated calibration plan will benefit all three missions and produce coordinated results that can be directly compared.