Analysis of REMS GTS Errors Due to MSL Rover and Martian Environment

This paper analyses the external sources of error of the REMS GTS, a contactless instrument to measure ground temperature that is part of the payload of the NASA MSL mission to Mars. Some environment properties such us atmosphere opacity, solar radiance, ground emissivity and rover IR emissions are studied, determining GTS characteristics. The article also proposes a simplified geometrical and thermal model of the rover and environment in order to evaluate and quantify their influence in ground temperature measurements. Finally, the article summarizes simulation results and provides solutions in order to improve sensor accuracy.