Abstract DGP2026-11

Jezero Hiking Map: Interactive Exploration of Mars

S. Walter (1), R. Jaumann (1), R. Munteanu (1), J. Bell (2), J. Joseph (3), T. Coelho (2), L. Patermann (1), R. AbuShunnar (1), A. Borchert (1), F. Postberg (1)

(1) Institute for Geological Sciences, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin, (2) School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, (3) Department of Astronomy, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY

Direct link to the map: https://maps.planet.fu-berlin.de/jezero

Overview

The Jezero Hiking Map is an interactive web map that brings NASA's Perseverance rover exploration to researchers and the public. The system combines precise geographic mapping with immersive visualization through Mastcam-Z 360° panoramas viewable in web browsers or VR devices. These panoramas offer unprecedented visual detail of the Martian surface, with pixel-level zooming for examining geological features. In VR, stereo display creates an enhanced sense of depth that mimics standing on Mars. By spatially anchoring panoramas to the map, users understand both specific details and their relationship to the broader Jezero Crater landscape.

Technical Architecture

The system employs a hybrid architecture combining OpenLayers for base mapping with the krpano panorama viewer for immersive experiences. OpenLayers handles base map rendering of Jezero Crater mosaics and topography, multiple data layers (rover waypoints, channels, contours), navigation controls, and POI placement. The krpano library renders Mastcam-Z panoramas when users select POIs, offering high-resolution image support, multi-resolution loading, smooth navigation with pixel-level zooming, and stereoscopic rendering for VR devices.

Data Processing

Each panorama POI represents a location where Perseverance captured a 360° mosaic using focal lengths of 34, 63, or 110mm. When selected, the application loads the krpano scene configuration, initializes the viewer, positions the view to maintain geographic context, and provides navigation controls. High-resolution data loads on-demand while the map maintains a lightweight overview of all panorama locations.

Base products come from ASU's official Mastcam-Z 360° panorama webpage (https://mastcamz.asu.edu/mastcam-zs-360-panorama-collection), with each panorama having a distinct numerical identifier. Images are adjusted to 2:1 width/height ratio, with sky portions scaled to the zenith when possible.

Development Outlook

Initially, the map used the A-Frame WebVR framework for panorama rendering. While functional, A-Frame struggled with extremely high-resolution imagery and precise zoom levels. We migrated to krpano for its superior handling of gigapixel-scale panoramas, efficient tiled loading, and enhanced viewing parameter control. The OpenLayers base map was retained and enhanced, maintaining spatial context while improving panorama experience.

The latest development provides direct REST URL access to individual panoramas. The format uses "360" for the collection, followed by the panorama ID matching the official Mastcam-Z site. Example: https://maps.planet.fu-berlin.de/jezero/360/45 (Fallbreen mosaic).

Applications and Future

Beyond public engagement, the map serves as a scientific tool for virtual field studies, geologic mapping, correlating surface features with orbital data, collaborative analysis, and documenting landscape changes.

As the mission continues, the platform will expand with additional panoramas, enhanced data layers including spectral information, virtual "hiking trails" linking panoramas, custom measurement tools, and integration with other Mars 2020 datasets for comprehensive scientific context.

Acknowledgements: This work is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) through the German Space Agency at DLR on the basis of a resolution of the German Bundestag (Funding code: 50 OO 2601).