Comparative Planetology Investigations using Novel Velocity-Sensing Mobile Kinematic- and Rover-Based 3D LiDAR Systems

This NASA Postdoctoral Program fellowship opportunity focuses on topographic measurements using mobile LiDAR sensors for understanding the geologic history and evolution of planetary surfaces. The research involves a new velocity-sensing Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW)-LiDAR sensor incorporated into a mobile kinematic 3D mapping system. The fellowship seeks original research proposals related to mobile, high-resolution velocity-sensing FMCW-LiDAR applications including: mobile LIDAR terrain mapping for topography and morphology of terrestrial surfaces for comparative planetology, FMCW-LiDAR navigation for roving platforms, and novel scientific investigations using unique velocity sensing capabilities. Research may also involve integration of other datasets with mobile LiDAR data, landscape evolution modeling, or mission planning scenarios. The NASA Postdoctoral Program offers one- to three-year competitive fellowships designed to advance NASA's missions in space science, Earth science, aeronautics, space operations, exploration systems, and astrobiology.