Lunar data simulation for SMART-1

The value of the data collected on a planetary mission does not depend only on the data by itself or its amount, but also on its joint analysis, comparison and integration with previous and/or expected data. The SMART-1 mission has also been prepared to get an opportunity for new science. We have done a search on the past missions that studied our satellite, the Moon. Therefore, previous lunar missions like Luna, Apollo, Hiten, Clementine or Lunar Prospector offer the possibility of comparing the existing lunar databases. This also helps in selecting for SMART-1 a wide range of lunar targets between the hundreds of Mares, Sinus, Catenas and Craters. On the other hand, simulation is necessary in order to reach this aim, and a simulation program has been developed to plan the SMART-1 payload operations and to pre-evaluate SMART-1 representative data and science return. Finally, we discuss perspectives how to enhance SMART-1 return in order to get the best results building on the knowledge of the Past with the present ESA technology.