Grid-Oriented Normalization for Analysis of Spherical Areas (GONASA)

About this technology

Overview

Accurate measurement and characterization of surface features on spherical objects, such as planets and moons, is a persistent challenge in planetary science, remote sensing, and atmospheric research. When viewed through traditional two-dimensional imaging, these spherical surfaces become distorted, particularly towards the edges, making it difficult to accurately measure important characteristics like area, perimeter, orientation, and spatial distribution. This distortion complicates the precise assessment of phenomena such as cloud coverage, geological features, or other surface events critical for scientific investigation. Thus, there is a need for a method that enables accurate and automated analysis without the distortion limitations inherent in traditional mapping approaches. NASA's innovative Grid-Oriented Normalization for Analysis of Spherical Areas (GONASA) directly addresses these challenges. The GONASA mathematical formula / algorithm provides a practical and accurate means of overcoming distortions through a novel, grid-based system of equal-area cells overlaid onto spherical surfaces. This enables users to reliably quantify and characterize objects on a sphere across entire surface, greatly enhancing the precision of scientific observations and improving the automation potential in processing and analyzing large volumes of data collected from satellite and spacecraft missions.