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About

Dylan Hickson is a planetary scientist whose research lies at the intersection of analog field simulations, remote sensing, and laboratory analysis of extraterrestrial materials. His work is central to understanding how we can interpret radar observations of asteroids and prepare for future sample return missions. Hickson’s most cited paper, “The CanMars Mars Sample Return analogue mission” (2018, 33 citations), demonstrates his leadership in designing and executing large-scale field simulations that mimic the complexities of robotic sample collection on Mars. He further advances planetary radar science with his modeling of the dielectric properties of minerals, from crystals to bulk powders, a critical step for accurately interpreting asteroid radar observations (2020, 15 citations). His contributions to the AMADEE-18 Mars analog mission in Oman, including laboratory analysis of returned samples (13 citations) and remote science operations (2 citations), showcase his ability to integrate field geology with laboratory techniques. Hickson’s work directly informs the physical interpretation of radar data for asteroids and the operational strategies for future Mars sample return, making him a key figure in bridging analog studies with space exploration.