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About

Claire Newman is a planetary scientist specializing in the atmospheric dynamics and surface interactions of Mars and Titan, with a focus on how wind and dust transport shape robotic mission operations. Her most cited work, "Results from InSight Robotic Arm Activities" (2023, 17 citations), details the intricate deployment of the InSight lander’s Instrument Deployment System—including the arm, scoop, and cameras—highlighting her critical role in ensuring successful instrument placement on the Martian surface. This contribution directly supported InSight’s seismic and heat-flow measurements, advancing our understanding of Mars’ interior. Newman also explores extraterrestrial aerial mobility, as seen in her study "Implications of wind-assisted aerial navigation for Titan mission planning and science exploration" (2010, 3 citations), which assesses how Titan’s winds could guide a montgolfiere balloon for the proposed Titan Saturn System Mission. Her work bridges engineering and atmospheric science, offering practical insights for future robotic explorers. With a career that combines hands-on mission support and forward-looking concept studies, Newman exemplifies how planetary science drives both current discoveries and next-generation exploration.