Researchers at BIT Mesra in Ranchi, with support from ISRO, have developed an AI-based technology to accurately detect and study craters on the Moon.
With multiple countries running lunar missions, scientists often face challenges in analysing the Moon’s complex terrain. The new system is designed to assist researchers by improving crater identification and terrain assessment.
The team led by Dr Sanjita Paul, Dr Mili Ghosh and Mimansa Sinha used “smart neural networks” to handle detailed lunar surface information and build the solution.
Using a dedicated tool named CraterMorpho, the technology can detect even small craters up to about 200 metres and also estimate parameters such as crater depth and the roughness of the surrounding surface.
The developers say the approach can help mission planners select safer landing zones on the Moon’s uneven surface, supporting future exploration planning.
