Construction and resource utilization explorer (CRUX): implementing instrument suite data fusion to characterize regolith hydrogen resources

CRUX is a modular suite of geophysical and borehole instruments combined with display and decision support system (Mapper/DSS) tools to characterize regolith resources, surface conditions, and geotechnical properties. CRUX is a NASA-funded Technology Maturation Program effort to provide enabling technology for lunar and planetary surface operations (LPSO) (Johnson et al., 2005). The Mapper/DSS uses data fusion methods with CRUX instruments, and other available data and models, to provide regolith properties information needed for LPSO that cannot be determined otherwise. We demonstrate the data fusion method by showing how it might be applied to characterize the distribution and form of hydrogen using a selection of CRUX instruments: borehole neutron probe and thermal evolved gas analyzer data as a function of depth help interpret surface neutron probe data to generate 3D information. Secondary information from other instruments along with physical models improves the hydrogen distribution characterization, enabling information products for operational decision-making.