Accessibility Data Set for Large Permanent Cold Traps at the Lunar Poles

Abstract

Many large cold traps exist at both lunar poles where temperatures never exceed 110 K annually, allowing the preservation of water ice. Much has been learned about these regions from orbital measurements, but in situ access is needed to truly understand the abundance, distribution, texture, and chemistry of volatiles that might be present in the regolith. We systematically studied the accessibility of the larger cold traps to wheeled vehicles from nearby staging areas. We calculated minimum energy routes for 20 north pole cold traps and 39 south pole cold traps >50 km2 in area. At each, accessibility metrics were determined for paths into and out of the cold trap and for round trip paths that return to the same location. We found that 55 of the 59 cold traps are readily accessible without exceeding 25° slopes. Smaller cold traps are generally more accessible than larger ones, with certain exceptions. The accessibility data set is presented graphically, in tabular form, and as ArcGIS shapefiles, all of which can be used to inform site selection and mission planning for future scientific and resource-focused activities.