Texas A&M scholar secures NASA funding to examine Martian dune dynamics

Texas A&M scholar secures NASA funding to examine Martian dune dynamics
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Feb 04, 2025

Sand dunes on the Red Planet may provide critical clues about Mars' puzzling environment, and Lauren Berger, a Ph.D. candidate in Texas A and M's Department of Geology and Geophysics, is prepared to decode them. Through a competitive grant from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), she aims to investigate how Martian winds, atmospheric processes, and dune structures intersect. The FINESST (Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology) program, which encourages forward-thinking research in planetary and Earth sciences, is making this study possible.

Berger's project, Insights into the Martian Environment Through Pattern Analysis of Compound Dunes, leverages detailed snapshots from NASA spacecraft to examine the complex dune systems on Mars. On Earth, "compound dunes" form when smaller dunes overlay larger ones, yet they remain largely uncharted territory on Mars.

"The shape and pattern of these aeolian bedforms-geologic features shaped by wind-can tell us so much about the environment," Berger explained. "By comparing compound dunes on Mars to those on Earth, we can uncover similarities and differences that could help us better understand the Martian surface and atmosphere."

Under FINESST, which selected just 156 out of 1,120 proposals, Berger's research delves deep into previously unexplored terrain. This grant represents a significant milestone for emerging scientists.

"Lauren is a passionate and dedicated student," said Dr. Julia Reece, Berger's adviser and an assistant professor in the Department of Geology and Geophysics. "The FINESST grant is a great accomplishment for which she can be proud. It will allow her to focus on her research, strengthen her relationship with NASA, and grow as a leader in earth and planetary sciences."

Originally from New York, Berger fell in love with geology at Occidental College in Los Angeles. After working on Martian sand ripple mapping at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, she discovered a particular fascination for wind-generated landscapes. These experiences, combined with a strong interest in planetary research, led her to Texas A and M, where she collaborated with Dr. Ryan Ewing, now at NASA'S Johnson Space Center.

With support from the FINESST program, Berger's first steps involve identifying all compound dunes across Mars using the highest-resolution images from NASA's Context Camera and the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment. Drawing parallels with Earth's analogous dune fields, she intends to decode the processes that create these formations and glean new details about Martian surface interactions.

"After years of looking at sand ripples as hazards for the Perseverance Rover, which is a NASA robot exploring Mars and searching for signs of past life, I wanted to dive deeper into the science behind them," Berger said.

Berger's principal investigator, associate research scientist Dr. Marion Nachon, emphasizes the prestige attached to this funding opportunity for early-career scientists.

"With this highly competitive FINESST grant award, Lauren is getting an exceptional opportunity to pursue her growth as a motivated and promising scientist," Nachon said. "She's reaching for the stars and planets!"

+ FINESST (Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology)