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We present THERMAP, a mid-infrared (8-16 {mu}m) spectro-imager for space missions to small bodies in the inner solar system, developed in the framework of the MarcoPolo-R asteroid sample return mission. THERMAP is very well suited to characterize the surface thermal environment of a NEO and to map its surface composition. The instrument has two channels, one for imaging and one for spectroscopy: it is both a thermal camera with full 2D imaging capabilities and a slit spectrometer. THERMAP takes advantage of the recent technological developments of uncooled microbolometers detectors, sensitive in the mid-infrared spectral range. THERMAP can acquire thermal images (8-18 {mu}m) of the surface and perform absolute temperature measurements with a precision better than 3.5 K above 200 K. THERMAP can acquire mid-infrared spectra (8-16 {mu}m) of the surface with a spectral resolution {Delta}{lambda} of 0.3 {mu}m. For surface temperatures above 350 K, spectra have a signal-to-noise ratio >60 in the spectral range 9-13 {mu}m where most emission features occur.
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Since 2009, the Kepler, K2, and TESS missions have produced a vast number of lightcurves for public use. To assist citizen scientists in processing those lightcurves, the LcTools software system was developed. The system provides a set of tools to efficiently search for signals of interest in large sets of lightcurves using automated and manual (visual) techniques. At the heart of the system is a multipurpose lightcurve viewer and signal processor with advanced navigation and display capabilities to facilitate the search for signals. Other applications in the system are available for building lightcurve files in bulk, finding periodic signals automatically, and generating signal reports. This paper describes each application in the system and the methods by which the software can be used to detect and record signals. The software is free and can be obtained from the lead author by request.
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