Slava G. Turyshev
California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Papers
4
Total Citations
58
H-Index
3
About
Slava G. Turyshev is a physicist and space scientist whose research sits at the compelling intersection of precision measurement, fundamental physics, and deep space exploration. Working primarily at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Turyshev has made significant contributions to laser ranging technology and its applications across the solar system. His most cited work, "Corner-cube retro-reflector instrument for advanced lunar laser ranging" (2012, 47 citations), represents a landmark contribution to improving the precision of Earth-Moon distance measurements, enabling more rigorous tests of gravitational physics and general relativity. His 2004 paper on laser ranging to the Moon, Mars, and beyond further expanded this vision, exploring how optical technologies could simultaneously advance planetary exploration and fundamental physics research. More recently, Turyshev has pioneered innovative concepts for outer solar system exploration, proposing the use of solar sailing smallsats combined with in-flight autonomous assembly of science payloads — a forward-thinking approach that could dramatically reduce mission costs while extending humanity's reach to the farthest corners of the solar system. His work consistently bridges cutting-edge instrumentation with ambitious scientific goals, making him a distinctive voice in both experimental gravitation and next-generation space mission design.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Corner-cube retro-reflector instrument for advanced lunar laser ranging47 citations · 2012
- 2Laser Ranging to the Moon, Mars and Beyond5 citations · 2004
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