SATPC0034041 Tab 04 4 SOW..pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK – Quantaero

1. Objective/Requirements

The contractor shall conduct experimental Structure-from-Motion (SfM) algorithm computations using tailored SfM/Belief Propagation Solver codes on relevant planetary descent imaging datasets and analogues from Earth to enable localized topographic mapping of Venus via the approved mission known as DAVINCI (launching 2029), with potential applications to landed missions such as MSL/Curiosity and Perseverance.

Flight descent/approach imaging from Mars (MSL MARDI, M2020 LCAM) and Bennu (OSIRIS-REx NavCam2) will be used to optimize algorithms that can be applied to future descent imaging of Venus (via DAVINCI’s VenDI camera) and via drop-test experiments. Additional flight experiments involving TRN descent imaging of Mars (Mars 2020 LCAM/RDC) and other missions will be included, as possible, for algorithm verification. Overarching goal is to streamline and refine descent imaging of topography using SfM methods so that they are optimized specifically for Venus descent trajectories under the cloud-deck with highest possible vertical resolution (as required for DAVINCI L-1 requirements). Experimental Earth analogue datasets from helicopter, drop-test, and drone simulations of planetary descent imaging will also be used so that emulations can be conducted in support of future Venus applications associated with DAVINCI.

Ultimately, an automated basis for computing topography (DEMs) via SfM algorithms via planetary descent imaging systems is the objective, with attention to Venus applications tailored to DAVINCI.

2. Characteristics, Scope, and Specs

The Contractor shall:

• Compute Digital Elevation Models (DEM) using various planetary (flight) descent imaging datasets as “analogues” for upcoming descent imaging of Venus by DAVINCI; these datasets include MSL MARDI (MAHLI), OSIRIS-REX NavCam2, and Mars 2020 EDL imaging (LCAM, RDC), plus Earth analogue simulation experiments from helicopters, drop-tests, and drones (e.g, UTTR)

• Evaluate optimal number of descent imaging frames and their inter-frame geometries (spacing or timing, field-of-view overlaps) as they pertain to ultimate vertical noise floor statistics and hence vertical precision via methods that allow statistical assessment (e.g., including Monte Carlo), relevant to upcoming Venus descent imaging under the clouds (DAVINCI VenDI from ~23 km to touchdown)

• Integrate drone-based & drop-test overlapping-frame imaging of Venus analogues (volcanic surfaces, quarries, islands, UTTR) into the assessment to further optimize # of frames versus ultimate horizontal and vertical resolution of resulting DEMs to produce empirical rules of thumb to be used in support of Mission Requirements for DAVINCI (at Level 2 and deeper applied to VenDI reqts)

• Provide algorithm optimization inputs and SfM DEM datasets to the NASA Principal Investigator (DAVINCI) in order to facilitate preparation of materials for Phase B modelling studies and related requirements refinement (including VenDI FOV variations), and into Phase C activities for flight optimization and for

ATBD (Algorithm Theoretical Basis Documents) and their later independent peer review before flight acceptance

• Evaluate potential of a horizontal VenDI imaging validation and verification at the DAVINCI primary support contractor using a “Venus Wall” adapted from work done for the ORISIS-Rex mission (Asteroid wall) for close-approach imaging via cameras similar to DAVINCI’s VenDI with textures, compositions

• Report highlights, task work and problems on a monthly basis - via email

• Meet with stakeholders for project management meetings on a regular basis (at least one Quarterly report per year or equivalent).

• Presentation at DAVINCI quarterly reviews (virtual), relevant Science Team tag-ups (when it is a topic), and in reports during extended Phase B related to flight algorithm optimization with testing on flight Mars datasets (and others: UTTR drop test), and support at least one publication in development

• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required for this Research/Work.

Computer Scientist/Machine Vision Scientist: proficient in commercial and state-of-the-art SfM software systems and use of planetary descent imaging and related Earth imaging datasets (Agisoft PhotoScan, Pix4D, etc.), as well as drone DEM software such as Drone2Map and DigitalSurf’s Mountains Mapper Premium. Best programming practice and meet all government and NASA/GSFC IT security requirements and Web policies, as well as data archival standards associated with peer reviewed documents and related publications.

Excellent oral and writing communication skills.

Field imaging experiment background is a plus, with experience with GPS surveying, drone operations, and digital imaging of topography for quantitative relief models.

3. Place of Performance Quantaero 4925 Pinebluff Trl Reno NV 89519-0970

4. POC and Delivery Destination:

Delivery Destination: N/A

5. Period of Performance February 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.