Harris Corporation (NYSE:HRS), a
world leader in advanced image processing solutions, announced today that it
is providing software to help scientists and engineers gain a new
perspective of Mars by creating the first high-resolution, image-based
digital elevation models of the planet. The models, which are developed
using images collected by the Mars Global Surveyor, will be used for
detailed studies of surface features and to locate potential sites for
future exploratory missions.
“Harris has a history of innovation in image processing technologies, as
well as a long and successful association with the U.S. space program,” said
Bob Henry, president, Harris Government Communications Systems Division
(GCSD). “We are very pleased to be playing a key role in a program that will
expand our scientific frontier and ultimately lead to a new era of space
exploration.”
The Harris software utilizes algorithms to automatically and precisely
process pairs of images and extract elevation data. These algorithms produce
more than 250,000 elevation points for each image pair, covering
approximately 45 square kilometers. The software is based on other highly
successful image processing technology developed by Harris for the U.S.
Department of Defense’s National Imagery and Mapping Agency. MSNBC recently
used a similar Harris product, RealSite[tm], during its ‘Out of the Rubble’
special feature to dynamically illustrate images of lower Manhattan in 3D.
Harris GCSD was selected last year by Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS) to
develop the digital elevation models of Mars. MSSS designed the camera
systems for the Mars Global Surveyor, which has been orbiting Mars since
1997, and is under contract to NASA through JPL for operation of the
spacecraft. To date, the cameras have collected more than 78,000 images of
the planet’s surface.
Harris GCSD conducts advanced research studies, develops prototypes, and
produces and supports state-of-the-art, highly reliable communications and
information systems that solve the mission-critical communications
challenges of its military and government customers, and provides the
technology base for the company’s diverse commercial businesses.
Harris Corporation is an international communications equipment company
focused on providing product, system, and service solutions that take its
customers to the next level. The company provides a wide range of products
and services for commercial and government communications markets such as
wireless, broadcast, government, and network support. Harris has sales and
service facilities in more than 90 countries. Additional information about
Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com.
