NASA | LOLA: Defining the Lunar Terrain

The video discusses the design and safety considerations for lunar and Martian landers, focusing on the size of rocks they can handle. It introduces the Lola laser altimeter, which measures surface distance and analyzes surface features through pulse spreading. The video also highlights the challenges faced in developing the instrument and the teamwork involved in overcoming them.

What is the importance of knowing the height of rocks on the landing surface?

What are the considerations for landing a spacecraft on Mars?

How does the laser altimeter (Lola) measure the distance to the surface?

Explain the significance of pulse spreading in laser altimetry.

What challenges did the instrument team face while developing the altimeter?