Presented By:
Caitlin Ahrens, Ph.D.
Planetary Geology, Geophysics & Geochemistry Lab
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Abstract: We will explore the challenges of sampling and curating planetary samples, including the preservation of frozen volatiles from the Moon (which can be as cold as Pluto!), and the risk analyses of extravehicular human and robotic activities. This includes a summary of the scientific, engineering, and management aspects of the preparations involved for in-situ resource utilization, Artemis, and Mars Sample Return initiatives. The speaker also encourages open Q&A from the audience to engage in conversations about these challenges and learn about the risks involved for astronaut environmental safety or purpose of samples for future sustainability.
Pending Approval for 1 PDH Credit
Bio: Dr. Caitlin Ahrens is an assistant research scientist from the Center for Research and Exploration in Space Science and Technology II (University of Maryland) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland. Dr. Ahrens received her B.S. in Physics/Astrophysics and Geology from West Virginia University in 2015, and a Ph.D. in Space and Planetary Science at the University of Arkansas in 2020. She is a member of the Diviner Science Team with the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. In collaboration with Artemis, she serves as a technical support scientist for the Extravehicular and Human Mobility Activities Program to assist in risk assessments of astronaut, rover, and lander activity at the lunar surface.