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Managing Analytical Data from Pristine Returned Samples in Compliance with NASA’S Data Strategy: The Astromaterials Data System
  • Kerstin Lehnert,
  • Lucia Profeta,
  • Jennifer Mays
Kerstin Lehnert
Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University

Corresponding Author:lehnert@ldeo.columbia.edu

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Lucia Profeta
Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University
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Jennifer Mays
Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University
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Abstract

Analytical studies of astromaterials samples returned by NASA space missions generate unique and highly valuable data that contribute fundamentally to our knowledge and understanding of the origin and evolution of Earth, our solar system, and the universe. These data need to be openly accessible and curated in a manner that maximizes their reuse in and utility for future science and that ensures their quality and long-term preservation. In several recent strategic documents and reports, NASA recognizes this need [1] and is adjusting its science information policies [2]. In 2020, NASA charged the Planetary Data Ecosystem Independent Review Board (PDE-IRB) to conduct a review of the planetary data landscape and make recommendations for improving access to and use of planetary science data by the science community [3]. This presentation will highlight features and services of the Astromaterials Data System that align the IRB’s recommendations. The Astromaterials Data System (Astromat) is a data infrastructure that has been funded by NASA since 2018 to curate, archive, and publish analytical data that are generated from astromaterials samples collected by NASA missions and curated at the Johnson Space Center in the Astromaterials Research & Exploration Science Division. Astromat’s mission is to: preserve astromaterials data and ensure their long-term access and reusability for new science endeavors; restore legacy data of astromaterials samples acquired in the past; synthesize historic and new data into a comprehensive, analysis-ready data store that allows scientists to use new technologies such as Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence to explore and mine these data in previously impossible ways. Astromat operates a data repository where researchers can deposit their data for archiving and publications, specifically to comply with new journal policies and guidelines for Open and FAIR data and Data Management Plans required by funders. The repository follows international best practices. Astromat also maintains the Astromat Synthesis, a relational database that integrates legacy and new data into a harmonized data collection that allows users to find and extract data at the granularity of individual analytical measurements and combine these into customized new compilations for advanced data analysis. [1] SMD’s Strategy for Data Management and Computing for Groundbreaking Science 2019-2024. [2] Scientific Information policy for the Science Mission Directorate, SMD Policy Document SPD-41 (August 2021). [3] Besse, S., et al. (2021). LPI Contributions 2549, 7070.