Exploring A Crater

Kilbourne Hole, a maar crater in the Potrilo volcanic field, formed 24,000 years ago due to a magma-groundwater explosion. It serves as a prime site for geological studies. NASA's RISE project tested instruments like XRF and LIBS for potential use in space exploration. These tools help analyze rock compositions and geochemical contexts. The team also used LiDAR and GPS for 3D mapping. Astronauts, including Butch Wilmore and Jack Schmidt, participated in simulations and training. Journalism students observed the process, gaining insights into scientific methods. The project aims to enhance future planetary exploration efficiency.

What geological feature is Kilbourne Hole, and how was it formed?

• A volcanic cone formed by lava flow

• A sinkhole formed by limestone erosion

• A maar crater formed by an explosive interaction between magma and groundwater

• A caldera formed by a collapsed volcano

Which instrument is used to determine the chemical composition of rocks?

• Hyperspectral camera

• X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF)

• Thermal camera

• LiDAR

What is the purpose of using LiDAR and GPS equipment in the field study?

• To analyze the chemical composition of rocks

• To create three-dimensional maps of the terrain

• To capture thermal images of the site

• To detect elements in rock samples

Who is the retired Apollo 17 astronaut that participated in the Kilbourne Hole field study?

• Neil Armstrong

• Jack Schmidt

• Buzz Aldrin

• Michael Collins

What was the main educational goal for the journalism students from Stony Brook University?

• To gain firsthand knowledge of scientific methods and equipment use

• To practice writing scientific articles

• To learn about geological formations

• To conduct interviews with astronauts