Complex spectral interactions of different minerals and textures in Mars terrestrial analogues: Some examples

Mineral interpretation of a planet surface using spectral libraries can be improved if the spectral variability, often characterizing the spectral data, can be explained as the result of well-defined geological processes. Reflectance spectra of metamorphic rocks are analyzed. Selected examples point out systematic and non-systematic relationships between spectral parameters (band wavelength, shape, and reflectance peaks) and geologically controlled variables (composition of minerals and mineral assemblages), thus establishing a conceptual framework that can facilitate the analysis of unknown spectra.