GPR Sensitivity Analysis for Detection of Subsurface Layers in Lunar Scenario

Abstract

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is an important instrument to characterize subsurface layers depending on their dielectric properties. GPR can efficiently detect and differentiate subsurface layers with significant dielectric contrast. However, in planetary subsurface, due to lack of water, dielectric contrast between the layers is very low, making the detection extremely challenging. In the present study, numerical simulations are carried out to determine the GPR signal levels in low dielectric contrast scenarios. Our results reveal that, noise-floor level of the GPR instrument should be at least 110dB below transmit power for successful detection in such cases. These results will be major input for GPR system design and configuration targeting planetary surface and subsurface studies for future missions.