Simulation of the Lunar Regolith and Lunar-Penetrating Radar Data Processing

Lunar-penetrating radar (LPR) was conducted by the “Yutu” rover of China's Chang-E 3 lunar mission to study the shallow subsurface of the Moon. Both regolith modeling and numerical simulation can provide a reliable reference for data processing of the Moon. In this study, a 3-D lunar regolith model that considered some key factors including terrain, rocks, randomness of medium, and permittivity change with depth is built. Based on LPR numerical simulation, v(z) f-k migration, with high accuracy for vertical velocity variations, is carried out. Compared with Stolt f-k migration, which is limited to constant velocity, v(z) f-k migration performs better. We have designed a workflow for LPR data of Chang-E 3 mission, such as v(z) f-k migration, filters, and gain. Finally, according to the LPR real data result, we estimate the thickness of the regolith, the location and physical parameters of several rocks, and randomness of medium. Besides, the present study provides a good reference for further understanding of lunar near-surface geological information.

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