it stands for planetary data system how it works NASA data archive examples it contains data with cartographic ( think maps) and topographic info somewhat similar to FIT and SER files from ISRO introduction : NASA planetary missions in the scientific user community. - Adopted by ESA, JAXA and other space agencies across globe. - Features of PDS Self structured, documented & Peer Review Data Sets Long-term access and usability of data - ISRO had also adopted PDS3 for following missions Chandrayaan-1 Mars Orbiter Mission. - ISRO will adopt PDS4 for Chandrayaan-2 and continue PDS4 for future planetary missions. PDS Home Page (http://pds.nasa.gov) wiki