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About

Brian Monacelli is a key figure in the search for signs of past life on Mars, specializing in the development and deployment of advanced spectroscopic instrumentation for planetary exploration. As a leading scientist on NASA’s Perseverance rover mission, his primary contribution is his work on the SHERLOC instrument (Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman and Luminescence for Organics and Chemicals). Monacelli’s research focuses on UV Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy to map the mineralogy and organic chemistry of the Martian surface, directly addressing the mission’s core astrobiology goals. His most cited work, the 2021 SHERLOC investigation paper (237 citations), details the instrument’s design and capabilities for spatially resolved chemical mapping. He also led the design and outreach functions of the SHERLOC calibration target, a critical component for ensuring data accuracy and engaging the public in the mission (35 citations). Beyond instrument design, Monacelli has contributed to the development of the instrument’s processing electronics and detector system. Through his work on Perseverance, Brian Monacelli is helping to pave the way for future human exploration and the ultimate discovery of extraterrestrial life.