Papers
2
Total Citations
8
H-Index
2
About
D. B. Eppler is a leading figure in planetary surface science operations, specializing in the development and testing of protocols for human and robotic exploration of the Moon and Mars. His major contributions center on bridging the gap between Apollo-era field geology and future exploration architectures, particularly through NASA’s analog field tests. Eppler’s most influential work, "Science Operations for the 2008 NASA Lunar Analog Field Test at Black Point Lava Flow, Arizona" (2009, 6 citations), demonstrates how prototypes of lunar vehicles and robots can transform science operations, integrating real-time decision-making with long-duration mission constraints. He further refined these concepts as a geology crew member during the Desert Research and Technology Studies (Desert RATS) 2010 tests, where he assessed the effectiveness of simulated planetary surface hardware in Arizona’s harsh desert terrain. Eppler’s research directly informs the design of crewed missions, emphasizing the critical role of field testing in optimizing scientific return. His work remains foundational for students and researchers studying human-robotic collaboration, mission planning, and operational geology for upcoming lunar and Martian expeditions.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2